The Croatian Water Polo Association (HVS) unveiled its official logo and slogan just weeks prior to the upcoming European Championship.

This is the first time that two closely related championships will take place in the same country on the continent.

Having hosted the event in Split in 2022, the next championship will occur in Dubrovnik and Zagreb from January 4 to 16 of next year, following the cancellation of the tournament in Israel.

“Recognizing that the previous event in Split set a remarkably high standard, we aimed to achieve the same excellence in designing the logo and visual identity. The symbols and motifs uniquely represent the host cities and the Republic of Croatia, seamlessly blending cultural heritage with the sport of water polo,” reads the HVS press release.

According to the release, inspiration for the official logo was drawn from traditional Croatian knitting techniques.

“Known as the triplet, this geometric ornament is a hallmark of ancient Croatian culture, embodying the art, tradition, and customs of the Croatian people. Its contours resonate with the waves of water, integral to water polo. Coupled with the silhouette of a water polo player as a secondary motif, we developed a compelling visual representation of the championship host and the sport itself,” the HVS announcement elaborates.

The theme of water and waves is encapsulated in the slogan – “Waves of Unity”.

“Water polo has perpetually fostered a distinct connection among its participants. It transcends being merely a sport; it is a cultural phenomenon that shapes character, fosters teamwork, resilience, and pride, and prioritizes collective identity over individual differences,” states HVS.

During the initial phase of the competition, Montenegro is set to compete in Dubrovnik against France on January 4, Spain on the 6th, and Croatia on the 8th.

The top two teams will progress directly to the quarter-finals, while the third and fourth-placed teams will engage in a playoff for a spot among the top eight.

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