Croatian Football Federation signs record media and marketing rights deal

(Photo: Drago Sopta/HNS)

The Hrvatski nogometni savez (HNS) has secured the most valuable television and marketing rights agreement in the history of Croatian domestic club football, marking a major milestone for the SuperSport HNL.

At a formal signing ceremony held at the Garden Inn by Hilton in Zagreb, HNS signed new long-term agreements with Hrvatski Telekom and SuperSport.

The contracts will run from the start of the 2026/27 season until the end of the 2030/31 campaign.

Under the five-year deal, Hrvatski Telekom will invest €49.2 million for television and related media rights, while SuperSport will contribute €12.5 million for marketing and betting rights. In total, the agreement secures €61.7 million for Croatian domestic football over the period.

HNS President Marijan Kustić described the partnership as crucial for the continued growth of the game.

Reflecting on the previous cycle, he recalled last season’s dramatic title finale, when three teams entered the final round with a chance of becoming champions. Hrvatski Telekom enabled simultaneous live broadcasts of all decisive matches, while SuperSport organised a helicopter transport of the championship trophy, a demonstration of operational excellence and strong collaboration.

(Photo: Drago Sopta/HNS)

Hrvatski Telekom CEO Nataša Rapaić emphasised the importance of making top-quality domestic football content accessible to viewers through MAXtv, supported by extensive studio programming, with around 800 shows produced annually.

SuperSport board members Goran Đurić and Radim Haluza underlined the company’s long-term commitment to Croatian sport. As part of the Entain Group, SuperSport sees the HNS partnership as strategically significant at international level, comparable to major European sponsorships.

(Photo: Drago Sopta/HNS)

Importantly, part of the new investment will be directed towards upgrading pitches and stadium infrastructure. Improved playing surfaces and facilities are expected to enhance both match quality and production standards, strengthening the league’s competitiveness in European competitions.

With two Croatian clubs competing in the spring stages of European tournaments this season, HNS believes the new agreement will help turn such achievements into a consistent standard, further elevating the profile of Croatian football at home and abroad.