Final preparations have been completed for the inaugural Croatian Diaspora Friendship Games, which will take place in Split and Milna on the island of Brač from 16 to 20 July 2026.
The event will bring together members of the Croatian diaspora, their friends and supporters from around the world for a programme centred on sport, culture, inclusion and community. Members of the organising committee recently visited sports facilities in Milna and held meetings with local authorities to finalise logistical arrangements and preparations for the sporting programme on Brač.
Project founder and director Nada Pritišanac Matulich also met with Split-Dalmatia County Prefect Blaženko Boban to discuss preparations and support for the international event. The county has confirmed its backing for the project, recognising its role in strengthening ties between Croatia and Croatians living abroad. Support has also been secured from the City of Split. Following meetings between organising committee representatives and city officials, the city and Mayor Tomislav Šuta confirmed their support for the event.
Further organisational discussions were held with representatives of Aspira University of Applied Sciences, one of the event’s hosts. Talks focused on operational planning and the involvement of students and the academic community in delivering the Games.
A key focus of the project is inclusivity. Organisers met with representatives of the Split City Parasports Association to ensure the participation of para-athletes, as well as children and adults with special needs. Organisers say this reflects the event’s commitment to equal opportunities and active participation for all members of society.
The opening ceremony is scheduled to take place on 16 July 2026 at the historic Meštrović Gallery in Split, one of Croatia’s most significant cultural venues.
Since its announcement, the Croatian Diaspora Friendship Games have attracted interest from Croatian communities and supporters across several continents. The initiative aims to promote Croatian culture, sport, friendship and heritage while strengthening connections between the homeland, the diaspora and friends of Croatia worldwide.
The project has also received support from the Archdiocese of Split-Makarska, which highlighted the importance of connecting Croatian communities abroad with their homeland through sport, culture and shared identity.
Participants, organisations and partners from numerous countries have already joined the initiative. Organisers hope the Games will become an annual international gathering, helping to further strengthen relationships between Croatians in Croatia, Croatian communities abroad and their friends around the world.
The first Croatian Diaspora Friendship Games are expected to provide a new platform for international cooperation, cultural exchange and community building, while celebrating the shared heritage that connects Croatians across the globe.
Photo: Nada Pritisanac Matulich
