Shameful scenes at Marakana: Zvezda fans unfurl banner honoring Ratko Mladić

Disturbing scenes unfolded at the 'Rajko Mitić' stadium during a Serbian football league match between Red Star Belgrade and Novi Pazar on August 8, 2026. While Red Star secured a 2-0 victory on the field, the most notable events occurred in the stands, where a section of the home supporters displayed a banner honoring Ratko Mladić, a convicted war criminal.

The banner, prominently displayed on the north stand, featured Mladić's likeness on a šajkača, a traditional Serbian cap. This visual display was accompanied by offensive and nationalist chants directed at other ethnic groups. Reports indicate that the lyrics glorified Mladić and expressed messages of hatred.

This act by Red Star fans has generated significant negative reactions from neighboring countries. Mladić was sentenced to life imprisonment for genocide, crimes against humanity, and violations of the laws and customs of war during the Bosnian War. The display of support for him has once again overshadowed the sport, drawing criticism for its association with such a figure.

The incident raises serious concerns about the influence of political extremism within sports. The Serbian Football Association and Red Star Belgrade are expected to face scrutiny and potential sanctions following this display. The event underscores a recurring issue where fan behavior intersects with sensitive historical and political contexts, leading to controversy and condemnation.