Croatian Football Fans Prepare for Montenegro Trip with Limited Tickets

Around 550 Croatian football fans are set to travel to Podgorica for an upcoming match, as the Croatian Football Federation received a limited number of tickets. These tickets will not be sold to the general public but will be allocated through a loyalty program and to official fan groups instead, according to Jutarnji List.

The federation has decided to distribute approximately 100 tickets to its most loyal supporters, while the remaining tickets will go to the ultra fans. Notably, only club-affiliated fan groups have been granted access to tickets, leaving national supporter groups, such as “Mi Hrvati,” without any opportunity to purchase. This decision indicates that the Croatian section in the stadium could have a limited presence of team jerseys, unless the ultras opt to wear their national colors.

The measures surrounding ticket distribution are reportedly tied to safety concerns. Both the Croatian and Montenegrin police have expressed a desire to keep fans together in one location, reducing the chance of potential incidents in the city. Plans have been organized for fans who purchase tickets to travel jointly to Montenegro by bus, rather than allowing individuals to arrive separately, which could heighten risks of confrontation.

As stated by Jutarnji List, the police believe it is easier to coordinate with the organized ultras, regardless of some members’ radical views. This approach aims to ensure the safety of Croatian fans, as there are fears they could be targeted while in Podgorica. The authorities have assured that Montenegrin fans who previously visited Croatia, and expressed remorse for past conflicts, are unlikely to pose any threat.

The Croatian Football Federation and local police appear focused on minimizing risks and fostering cooperation among fans. This collaborative effort highlights the complexities of organizing such events in a region with a complicated history, while striving to ensure a safe environment for all attendees.