President of the European Sambo Federation (ESF) Sergey Eliseev visited the Croatian capital Zagreb for a series of important meetings and a press conference. The main focus of the visit was on the upcoming European Sambo Cup in Dubrovnik and Croatia’s plans to apply for the 2027 European Championship.
As part of the working trip, a press conference was held on November 27, 2025, which attracted the attention of the leading Croatian media.
At the press conference, the issue of preparations for the European Sambo Cup, which will be held in Dubrovnik from January 16 to 19, 2026, was raised. This tournament promises to become a significant event in the calendar of the European Sambo Federation. Croatia’s plans to apply to host the European Sambo Championship in 2027 were also discussed. This step highlights the country’s growing interest in the development of SAMBO and its willingness to host major international competitions.
Official reception: Strengthening cooperation and development of SAMBO.
After the press conference, a special reception and an official meeting took place in the building of the Sports Federation of the City of Zagreb (Sportski savez Grada Zagreba). The event brought together key figures from both the European Sambo Federation and representatives of Croatian sports and municipal structures.
Among the high-ranking guests were:• Mr. Sergey Eliseev, President of the European Sambo Federation;• Mr. Vjekoslav Šafranić , President of
the Sports Federation of the City of Zagreb;• Ms. Suzana Šop, Secretary General of the Sports Federation of the City of Zagreb;•Mr. Marko Miloslavić, Mayor of the Municipality of Župa Dubrovačka; Mr. Franko Mekišić, Head of the General Office of the Municipality of Župa Dubrovačka.
During the reception, productive discussions were held on further strategic cooperation and development of SAMBO in Croatia and the European region. The sides exchanged views on the organization of future competitions, as well as ways to strengthen cooperation with the European Sambo Federation, which is the key to the successful promotion of this sport.
The visit of the President of the European Sambo Federation Sergey Eliseev to Zagreb was an important step in strengthening the position of SAMBO in Croatia and Europe, demonstrating a high level of interest and willingness to work together to organize major international tournaments and promote SAMBO.