USKOK raids Croatian Football Federation offices
USKOK searched HNS headquarters on September 21, 2026 in a probe of alleged illicit commissions tied to sponsorship contracts.
On September 21, 2026 at 15:40 Croatian media reported that USKOK — the Office for the Suppression of Corruption and Organized Crime — carried out a raid inside the headquarters of the Croatian Football Federation (HNS).
Croatian outlets quoted brief statements saying: "USKOK carried out a raid in the premises of the Croatian Football Federation. Investigators from USKOK searched HNS offices for documentation related to sponsorship contracts."
Investigation focus
According to the reports, investigators are examining alleged illegal commission payments to individuals within the federation tied to large sponsorship deals. The probe reportedly targets senior HNS officials who are suspected of taking credit and financial benefits from those contracts.
The action comes after USKOK had already shown interest in the federation earlier this year, even prior to the World Cup held in early summer. Sources say several complaints were filed against various sports associations in recent weeks, prompting a broader wave of probes across Croatian sport.
The raid follows earlier high-profile cases in Croatian sport. Investigators opened a case after more than €100,000 in cash was found at a border crossing on an employee of the Croatian Ski Association. USKOK later launched proceedings against the association's long-time director, Vedran Pavlek, and several associates, accusing them of organized crime, embezzlement of association funds and laundering more than €12 million through a network of foreign companies.
HNS has not published an official response yet. The investigation appears to be ongoing and further details are expected as prosecutors review seized documents and evidence.
Photo: press material from the event
