Overview

• Ivan Horvat has been suspended by the Austrian Handball Federation until June 30, 2027, for gross unsportsmanlike conduct during a championship quarterfinal match.
• The incident involved Horvat striking Markus Mahr in the face, resulting in a severe nasal fracture requiring surgery and ongoing medical care.
• Markus Mahr will miss Austria's European Championship qualifier against Turkey due to the injury sustained in the altercation.
• The disciplinary tribunal cited ÖHB rule 7.3.1, which allows for extended bans in cases of severe fouls causing major injuries.
• Alpla HC Hard is considering an appeal against the 26-month suspension, while the handball community debates sportsmanship and fair play.