Croatian Handball Federation and Coach Fined by EHF Over Flag and Criticisms

The Croatian Handball Federation (HRS) has received a 10,000 euro fine, and its coach, Dagur Sigurdsson, a 4,000 euro fine. The European Handball Federation (EHF) announced these penalties due to incidents that occurred during this year's European Championship.

The HRS was penalized for violating EHF protocol during the medal ceremony, specifically for displaying an "unauthorized flag." While the EHF did not specify the flag, the Croatian team, which won bronze, showed two flags during the ceremony. One was the official Republic of Croatia flag. The other was identified as a flag representing Croatian people from Bosnia and Herzegovina, featuring the name Ljubuški. Many players on the Croatian team have roots in Herzegovina, and some were photographed with this flag.

Coach Dagur Sigurdsson's fine resulted from "derogatory statements" he made about the EHF during a press conference after the semi-finals. Sigurdsson strongly criticized the EHF for what he described as poor tournament organization. He complained about extensive travel, lack of training time, and a demanding schedule that disregarded player welfare. He stated that the EHF acted like "fast food companies," prioritizing sales over quality and the well-being of players and teams. He specifically mentioned a four-hour drive from Malmö and insufficient rest days for players.

Both fines include a conditional element. 2,500 euros of the HRS fine and 2,000 euros of Sigurdsson's fine are suspended for a two-year probation period.