Two Bosnian Fans Arrested for Assaulting Police Before World Cup Match in Canada

Two Bosnian football fans were arrested at Toronto Stadium before the opening match of the 2026 World Cup in Canada between Canada and Bosnia and Herzegovina. The arrests took place on Friday, shortly before kickoff, after police responded to disturbances in the stands.

According to Toronto Police, officers were called to the stadium following reports of altercations involving individuals described as problematic. When police attempted to escort one fan out of the venue, objects were thrown at the officers, necessitating a larger police presence to manage the situation. Two officers sustained minor injuries and received on-site treatment.

The arrested individuals have been identified as Eldar Grabovac, 27, and Emir Colic, 25, both German residents associated with a Bosnian fan group. They have been charged with assaulting a police officer. Local media reported that the incidents occurred in section 215 of the stadium's temporary south stand, an area occupied by members of BHFanaticos, a prominent Bosnian ultras group.

Reports suggest the disturbances began approximately 50 minutes before the match started. The game itself, part of Group B, ended in a 1-1 draw and marked a historic moment as the first men's World Cup match played on Canadian soil. An estimated 8,000 to 10,000 Bosnian fans attended the sold-out match, which had a total attendance of 43,002 spectators.