The Varaždin Arena

When Croatia was awarded the 2009 Men’s Handball World Championship, the country saw a need for modern sports arenas that could also be used for cultural purposes.

In 2007, the Max Bögl Group—initially in partnership with a Croatian firm—was commissioned by the city of Varaždin to construct an indoor arena that meets high international standards, including those of the IHF, and to operate it for 25 years. Now 100% owned by the Max Bögl Group, the “Arena Varazdin” has hosted not only the 2009 World Championship but also other major sporting events in recent years, such as additional World and European Championships in handball and volleyball, as well as the Davis Cup and events organized by the Croatian Tennis Federation. In addition, Croatian and international artists from neighboring countries perform regularly at the arena.

Under the lease agreement with the city of Varazdin, local clubs are delighted to be able to pursue their athletic activities year-round in one of Croatia’s most modern arenas.

High Standards Set by the IHF

Although the Arena Varaždin team already has extensive experience with numerous sporting events, it had to step up its game once again for the 2025 World Handball Championship to meet the IHF’s high standards. The main criterion was that the arena be state-of-the-art both technically and functionally—this includes excellent lighting for TV broadcasts, a stable internet connection throughout the arena, a sophisticated signage system both inside and outside the arena, complete protection against power outages, and much more.

In addition, the enhanced security measures established in response to the global situation had to be implemented. The arena is locked four hours before the start of each game and thoroughly searched before the first spectators arrive to rule out any potential security risks. 

Preliminary round featuring the teams in Group D

The individual groups were determined during a draw in Zagreb. The teams in Group D—Guinea, Hungary, the Netherlands, and North Macedonia—will play first at our arena in Varaždin. There is a one-day break between each match, during which the teams train. This will be followed by the main round and then the Round of 16 in Denmark and Norway.