HNK Hajduk Split supervisory board president Ljubo Pavasović Visković has flatly rejected any notion that the club fears its Torcida ultras, following antisemitic incidents that marred the historic match against Ajax. Pavasović Visković stressed that no one at the club finds such behaviour acceptable and that everyone lives in a democratic society governed by laws.

“Does anyone ask me or anyone at the club what we think about it?” said Pavasović Visković.

The incident occurred around Hajduk's landmark 2-1 Conference League victory over Ajax on October 15, the club's first major European match in 16 years. A section of Torcida fans directed abuse towards the Jewish community and chanted praise for Adolf Hitler, leading to a 12-minute match interruption and the arrest of three individuals. Police launched a criminal investigation for public incitement to violence and hatred.

Condemnation came from numerous institutions, including the Israeli Embassy in Zagreb, the Ombudswoman, the Croatian Football Federation, and state officials. The Federation stated the incident damages the image of Croatian football. The club itself apologised for the behaviour of some fans, emphasising it does not represent Hajduk's values and that they are ready to face the consequences.

Pavasović Visković also criticised local media, reminding them they published a eulogy to war criminals a week earlier while now questioning Hajduk's reaction. “Personally I fear no one and there is no reason for anyone to fear anyone,” the board president stated. He added there is no talk of fear or similar matters.

This controversy unfolds as Hajduk sits at the peak of its domestic form. The team leads the HNL table with 19 points from nine matches, just one point clear of second-placed NK Varazdin who visit tomorrow, October 18. The 2-1 win over Ajax, with goals from Abdoulie Sanyang and Michele Šego, extended Hajduk's run to two consecutive victories. The team has scored 18 goals this season, with Šego the top scorer on four.

Tomorrow's clash with Varazdin at Poljud will be a true test for a squad aiming to hold onto top spot, all under the shadow of recent events that have cast a pall over the sporting achievement.

First reported at Index.hr Sport