Croatian sports legends Mirko Novosel and Mate Parlov commemorated on anniversaries

The third anniversary of former basketball administrator Mirko Novosel's death was marked with reflections on his career, including his 1990s involvement with Dinamo Zagreb at the behest of President Franjo Tuđman. Novosel, who died on 20 July 2023 at age 85, is remembered for his contributions to Croatian basketball and his brief role in football club projects.

In Pula, the funeral of boxing champion Mate Parlov drew thousands of mourners, politicians and athletes. Parlov's death anniversary was observed with a solemn ceremony, speeches by longtime friend Luka Belić and a citywide day of mourning declared by local officials. The coverage also recalled a past controversy over a planned Thompson concert in the city, which had sparked debate over the use of Ustaše imagery.

Both commemorations highlight the lasting impact of these sports figures on Croatian cultural memory.