Montenegro’s water polo community celebrated a remarkable year in 2025, marked by significant achievements and the pursuit of national sport status. According to Nikola Milić, president of the Water Polo Swimming Federation, the year was filled with medals, records, and unforgettable matches that showcased the sport’s growing prominence in the country.
Milić spoke to the MINA agency, emphasizing that 2025 was not only about achievements but also about laying the groundwork for future success. Numerous initiatives were launched to enhance the conditions for water polo and swimming in Montenegro. He pointed out that financial stability within the Federation and support for clubs are crucial for a sustainable sports system.
“The budget in 2025 nearly doubled compared to the previous record year,” Milić stated. “This reflects the trust sponsors have in our direction and the governance of the Federation. We have worked diligently to manage the Federation responsibly, with a clear revenue growth strategy and strict cost control.”
Milić highlighted that the results achieved did not happen by chance. They stemmed from improvements in the organization and ongoing support provided to clubs and national teams. “We have made significant strides in marketing and communication, building trust with sponsors through responsible management and clear communication,” he added.
He noted that approximately 15 percent of the total budget was allocated to clubs based on clear criteria, which he considers essential for long-term success. Milić expressed pride in Montenegro’s water polo as the only team sport in the country with two representatives in the Champions League and one each in the Euro Cup and Conference Cup.
“Jadran has a realistic chance of reaching the top eight in the Champions League, while Primorac continues to compete in the Euro Cup and aims for the last 16. These results are unique to water polo and exemplify its significance to Montenegrin sports,” he remarked.
The year began with the World Cup qualifying tournament in Romania and culminated in the finals held in Podgorica. “We organized this event to give water polo fans in Montenegro an opportunity to enjoy a sporting spectacle and support our team in qualifying for the World Championship. We received praise for the organization, and our dedicated team met the challenge admirably,” Milić stated.
Montenegro’s senior team secured sixth place at the World Championship in Singapore, which marks its best finish since Budapest in 2017. The under-20 team also excelled, reaching the top eight at the World Championship in Zagreb, while the under-16 team captured bronze at the European Championship in Istanbul. Notably, the under-18 team became the European champions in Oradea, achieving six victories in six matches—a testament to their dominance.
In swimming, 2025 brought new records and the emergence of young talent. Olympic athlete Miloš Milenković shone at the Games of the Small States of Europe in Andorra, winning gold medals in both the 50 and 100 meters butterfly and setting new records for the event. Montenegrin swimmers also participated in various competitions, including the COMEN Cup in Belgrade and the European U23 Championship in Šamorín.
Milić announced several initiatives from the Water Polo Swimming Federation, particularly advocating for water polo to be recognized as a national sport. “Water polo has long deserved this status. The achievements of our senior national team since 2008, medals from major competitions, and five consecutive Olympic appearances speak volumes,” he asserted.
He believes that relevant public surveys support this initiative and that the current government recognizes the sport’s importance. “With the new Sports Law, water polo will be clearly defined as a national sport, ensuring stable funding and long-term investment in its growth and development,” Milić explained.
He emphasized Montenegro’s potential to represent the country in major international competitions, including the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, owing to the immense talent and dedication of its coaching staff. “While we may not match the numbers of countries like Croatia or Serbia, we compete effectively on the field,” he noted.
Milić pointed out that in the previous year, three younger teams secured two medals, contributing to a total of 14 medals won since Montenegro’s independence. “This clearly shows that player potential exists, but we must provide a solid foundation for development so that Montenegro can regain its place among the top water polo nations,” he emphasized.
To achieve this, the Federation is investing in youth categories through clubs, training, and systematic support for coaches. “We have established clear funding criteria, ensured regular training, and are including work with psychologists and nutritionists,” he stated.
Infrastructure development is also a priority, with Milić announcing completed tenders for an Olympic pool in Podgorica, which will facilitate the bid for hosting the European Championship in 2028. Additionally, plans for new pools in Bar and Herceg Novi aim to provide modern facilities for training and competitions.
Regarding the Regional League, Milić confirmed that the Federation is committed to preserving the existing system. “When uncertainty arose, we took responsibility and initiated a new league model, with full financial and organizational support from the Federation,” he explained.
As Montenegro prepares for the European Championship in Belgrade, Milić expressed confidence in the team’s potential, despite facing formidable opponents. “Our selection is in a developmental phase, and we are entering the championship with a younger team, including two eighteen-year-olds,” he said.
He reiterated that while the ambitions remain high, the focus is also on strategic long-term development. “We aim for this team to mature through competitive matches, supported by experienced players who can guide them,” he concluded. Milić remains optimistic about the future of Montenegrin water polo, trusting in the athletes’ readiness to meet expectations and challenges ahead.
