Controversy surrounds Croatian national football team’s sponsorship deal
The Croatian national football team has signed a sponsorship deal with Dragon Z6, an unlicensed company operating outside recognized jurisdictions, sparking significant controversy in the sports community.
Investigations by Bellingcat and Josimar revealed that the team’s Asian partner lacks proper licensing. During the deal signing in Zagreb, the company’s representative introduced himself as “Alexander Smith,” but facial recognition technology identified him as Branko Balona, a university IT lecturer.
Further scrutiny uncovered that Dragon Z6 is a successor to the KashBet (KB88) brand, which previously partnered with well-known clubs such as Ajax, Roma, and Bayer. The service operates through a network of mirror sites featuring Chinese content, raising doubts about its credibility.
The company also used a photo of famed footballer Robin van Persie without permission, prompting the player’s agent to announce preparations for legal action.
The Croatian Football Federation has so far declined to comment on the situation, leaving the future of the partnership uncertain.
Overall, this case highlights serious concerns about transparency and ethics in sports sponsorships and the influence of unauthorized bookmakers within football.
Official statements and possible legal consequences for Dragon Z6 and the Croatian national team are expected in the near future.
