It’s now official: the European Water Polo Championship will take place in Croatia from January 4 to 16, as confirmed by the European Water Sports Federation (EA, previously LEN) and the Croatian Water Polo Association.

Perica Bukić, vice-president of the Croatian Football Federation, announced that Zagreb and Dubrovnik will serve as the host cities for the continental championship. Additionally, the group that includes Montenegro will compete on the Adriatic coast, specifically at the pool in Gruž.

This event presents a perfect chance for the “sharks” to receive robust support from fans in nearby Dubrovnik.

The championship was originally scheduled to occur in Netanya this January but was canceled due to the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip.

“Following the spectacular event in Split where we clinched gold at the last European Championship, we are thrilled to have another opportunity to host this prestigious continental competition. Our trophy centers, Dubrovnik and Zagreb, will welcome the teams,” Bukić stated, according to the Index portal.

After the tournament in Netanya was canceled, there were concerns that the European Championship might not take place at all. Berlin was considered as a potential host, but ultimately, Croatia stepped in to save the day, having received government approval to organize the event.

“I want to express my gratitude to the organizers for their relentless efforts in making these championships happen. Through our collaboration, we will ensure everything is organized optimally,” remarked EA president Antonio Silva.

The European Championship will also serve as a qualifier for next summer’s Olympic Games in Paris. The European champion, or the highest-placed team in the tournament after Hungary, Greece, and France (who already have secured spots), will qualify for the Games.

From the championship in Qatar, which will be held from February 2 to 18 next year, the top three national teams will also advance to the World Championship and have a shot at qualifying for the Olympics in Paris. Hungary, Greece, Spain, Serbia, Italy, and France have already secured their spots.

During the championship in Dubrovnik, Montenegro will compete in a group that includes France (January 4), Spain (January 6), and host Croatia (January 8). The top two teams will advance directly to the quarter-finals, while the third and fourth-placed teams will move to the round of 16.

Additionally, EA has announced that the women’s tournament will take place in Eindhoven from January 5 to 13.

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