Croatian Football Federation Condemns Attack on VAR Referee Tihomir Pejin

Former top-flight football referee Tihomir Pejin, who now serves as a VAR official, was physically assaulted in Osijek on Friday morning. The attack occurred on Wilsonova Street near the Gradski vrt stadium, and Pejin received immediate medical attention before being transported to the KBC Osijek hospital for further treatment.

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According to information available so far, Tihomir Pejin was physically attacked by unknown persons, after which he received emergency medical assistance and was then transported to KBC Osijek for further treatment.

The Croatian Football Federation (HNS) has issued a strong condemnation of the incident. In a statement, the HNS declared that regardless of the motives or circumstances, which are being investigated by authorities, there is "no justification" for the physical attack on any individual. The federation emphasized its unwavering support for Pejin and called upon the relevant institutions to thoroughly investigate the event, identify those responsible, and take appropriate legal action.

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Regardless of the motives and circumstances that the competent authorities will determine, the Croatian Football Federation most strongly condemns any form of violence.

The HNS extended its best wishes to Tihomir Pejin for a swift and complete recovery. Pejin, who concluded his career as a head referee, continues his involvement in football as a video assistant referee (VAR). The incident has cast a shadow over the sport, highlighting concerns about violence against match officials.

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There is no justification for the physical attack on any individual.