Croatian Olympic Committee election sees cardiothoracic surgeon Josip Varvodić challenge incumbent Dr. Dragan Primorac

Cardiothoracic surgeon Dr. Josip Varvodić has entered the race for president of the Croatian Olympic Committee (HOO), pledging greater transparency and tighter financial controls. Varvodić criticises the current administration for opaque public‑fund allocations, citing past scandals such as the alleged €30 million misappropriation in the ski federation. He says that publishing clear criteria and audit results for every euro would eliminate secret deals. The contest will be decided at the HOO assembly on 29 July, where Varvodić will face Dr. Dragan Primorac. If elected, Varvodić plans to audit contracts, limit the powers of the chief secretary and directors, and enforce regular financial reviews.

Varvodić also points to the need for broader oversight of all sports federations, arguing that every athlete, coach and official must know how much funding each federation receives. He claims the current system is “defeating” and calls for a complete overhaul rather than cosmetic changes.