In its 11th edition, Umag Trophy continues to confirm its status as one of the largest international youth football tournaments in this part of Europe. Over more than a decade, the tournament has grown from a regional competition into a recognised international platform, bringing hundreds of teams from different countries to Umag each year and combining sport, youth player development and a complete tournament experience.
The new season marks the beginning of a new decade for the tournament. As organisers, we are building on this milestone by further developing all key elements, from the competitive level and organisation to the accompanying programme and digital experience. During the first three competition weeks, several hundred teams took to the pitches of the Stella Maris Sports Centre, more than a thousand matches were played, and Umag once again came alive to the rhythm of football.
U10: A Strong Start and Red Star Belgrade Dominance
The tournament spring opened with the U10 category, which brought together more than 100 teams from ten countries in Umag between 5 and 8 March. Over three competition days, 288 matches were played, producing an impressive 1,449 goals, accompanied by enthusiastic support from numerous fans in the stands.
In the final, FK Crvena zvezda defeated NK Triglav Kranj 2:0 to claim a well-deserved title after displaying highly effective and disciplined football throughout the knockout stage. NK Maribor and FC Koper also reached the final four, while NŠ Domžale received the Fair Play Award.
U11: Record Numbers and Another Title for Red Star Belgrade
The second competition week, dedicated to the U11 category, expanded the tournament even further in both scale and intensity. A total of 120 teams from eight countries gathered in Umag and played 476 matches over three days.
The tournament also reached an important milestone during the week, surpassing 10,000 matches played across all editions since its foundation, underlining both its tradition and sustained long-term growth.
The second weekend was once again marked by FK Crvena zvezda, who defeated Grazer AK 1902 3:0 in the final to secure their second consecutive title. NK Celje claimed third place after defeating Juventus in a closely contested match. Fair Play Awards were presented to NK Izola and NK Svoboda Kisovec.
U8 and U12: Peak Intensity and a European Football Showcase
The third competition week brought together the youngest U8 category and the U12 tournament, creating one of the most dynamic weekends to date. A total of 120 teams from ten countries competed on the Stella Maris pitches, playing 476 matches and scoring more than 1,700 goals.
In the U8 category, two Italian giants met in the final. After a 1:1 draw in regular time, AC Milan defeated Juventus on penalties to lift the trophy. GNK Dinamo Zagreb finished third after beating FC Barcelona, further highlighting the high competitive standard even in the youngest age group.
In the U12 category, GNK Dinamo Zagreb claimed the title with a 2:0 victory over BFC Dušanovac plavi in the final, confirming their quality throughout the knockout stages. Juventus finished third, while HNK Zadar took fourth place after reaching the semi-finals, one of the more notable results of the tournament.
More Than Football
Alongside the competitive programme, Umag Trophy also offers an extensive accompanying programme that plays an important role in the overall participant experience. Each competition week begins with an opening ceremony at the Goran Ivanišević ATP Stadium, marking the start of a new football weekend.
During the first three weeks alone, visitors enjoyed more than 75 hours of accompanying activities and 24 hours of live music, creating additional energy throughout the venue. The Fun Zone and Istrian Village are central parts of the off-pitch programme, allowing players and visitors to continue enjoying the tournament experience away from the pitches.
The Istrian Village also features official B4 merchandise, including the popular Flamy mascot, personalised T-shirts and other souvenirs.
Tournament partners also play an important role in supporting its organisation and continued development. Official equipment partners adidas and Unisport not only provide sports equipment but also contribute to the activities in the Fun Zone, which is one of the tournament’s liveliest areas throughout the day. Children can take part in football challenges, spend time together and stay active, while a selection of sporting products is also available.
Vitamini.si helps provide additional energy throughout the tournament, while Legacy, in cooperation with Pixellot AIR, enables live match broadcasts, extending access to the tournament beyond the pitches.
Visit Umag and Plava Laguna contribute to integrating the tournament into the destination and provide accommodation conditions for teams and accompanying guests.
The Final Part of the Tournament Spring Awaits
Following three successfully completed weeks, the tournament now enters its final phase. The U9 category is next, followed by the concluding U13 and U14 tournaments, which will bring this year’s edition to a close.
“The first weeks of the tournament are now behind us, and we are extremely pleased with both the strong participation and the excellent atmosphere on the pitches and in the stands. We are seeing incredible energy from the young players on the field and outstanding support from parents and fans in the stands. We are delighted to once again create an environment in Umag where young footballers can experience a true tournament atmosphere.
Umag Trophy is once again proving that it is much more than just a tournament. The packed stands of the Goran Ivanišević ATP Stadium during Thursday’s opening ceremonies show that both the local community and international visitors greatly appreciate the comprehensive programme we provide for everyone involved, from the players themselves to all those accompanying them.
Such a strong start to the tournament spring gives us additional motivation and enthusiasm to deliver the remaining tournaments to the same standard and provide a unique experience for all the teams still to come,” the organisers said.
If the first three weeks are any indication, the remainder of the tournament promises even more top-level football, new stories and unforgettable moments.
Umag Trophy 2026 continues, and the story is far from over.
