Local municipalities implement new financial support for regional sports

Local governments in Montenegro and Croatia are implementing new measures to support regional sports and reduce financial burdens on athletes and families.

In Herceg Novi, Montenegro, the local parliament held a four-hour debate regarding sports funding for the 2021–2026 period. The assembly approved four conclusions aimed at improving budget planning and distribution. This year, 1.15 million euros have been allocated to co-finance local sports clubs, the largest amount in the municipality's history. To ensure transparency and fairness, officials will develop a five-year sports development strategy and a detailed report on club financing within the next six months. Additionally, the municipality plans to create a fund to subsidize membership fees for children from low-income families.

In Viškovci, Croatia, the municipality has decided to fully finance the cost of mandatory medical examinations for local athletes. This decision covers approximately 90 athletes, including both youth and seniors involved in football and handball. By covering these costs, the municipality aims to alleviate the financial pressure on families and support local clubs such as NK Radnički Viškovci and NK Jedinstvo Forkuševci.