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3w ago

Thompson’s Record-Breaking Concert in Zagreb Draws Over 450,000 Fans

Unprecedented security remained in place after the concert, prompting widespread political backlash over Ustaše-era salutes

People arrive ahead of the concert of the Croatian singer Marko Perkovic Thompson, which is poised to break the world record for largest paid concert in Zagreb, Croatia, July 5, 2025. REUTERS/Borut Zivulovic
People gather ahead of the concert of the Croatian singer Marko Perkovic Thompson, which is poised to break the world record for largest paid concert in Zagreb, Croatia, July 5, 2025. REUTERS/Borut Zivulovic
A fan shows off her nails as she arrives at the concert of the Croatian singer Marko Perkovic Thompson, which is poised to break the world record for largest paid concert in Zagreb, Croatia, July 5, 2025. REUTERS/Borut Zivulovic
Fans pose prior to the concert of right-wing singer Marko Perkovic, known as Thompson, in Zagreb, Croatia, Saturday, July 5, 2025. (AP Photo)

Overview

  • Croatian police said more than 450,000 tickets were sold for the show at the Hippodrome, making it the largest paid concert in the country’s history.
  • Organizers banned hate-fueling insignia but some attendees performed Ustaše salutes and displayed nationalist symbols linked to Croatia’s World War II pro-Nazi regime.
  • Authorities deployed over 6,500 officers, snipers, helicopters, a special control center and a field hospital to manage potential unrest.
  • Thompson has faced bans in the Netherlands, Switzerland and Bosnia over his songs’ nationalist overtones but defends his music as celebrating faith and homeland.
  • Croatian and Serbian political leaders condemned the concert’s extremist displays, reigniting debate over historical memory and enforcement of anti-hate laws.