Football returns to NW Istria: clubs kick off winter training

Northwestern Istria is once again one of the most active destinations for football clubs’ winter training camps from Croatia and abroad. Starting in early January and continuing into February, the region traditionally becomes a sports base where top-level infrastructure, high-quality accommodation, and a mild Mediterranean climate come together – reasons why many clubs have chosen this winter destination for years.

Training sessions and matches take place at several locations within the north-western Istria cluster, on top-quality pitches designed for both training and match play, with the Stella Maris football complex in Umag serving as the central hub. The pitches are located in the immediate vicinity of the accommodation facilities, allowing clubs perfect logistics and a comfortable stay during their multi-day training camps

Among others, HNK Gorica, Slovenian side NK Koper and Hungarian side ZTE have arrived in Umag. In January, Istria will also host a number of other Croatian and international clubs that traditionally choose the region to fine-tune their squads ahead of the spring part of the season.

Matches are already in full swing – among the highlights is the clash between Koper and Gorica, to be played on 10 January in Novigrad, on the pitch of the Aminess HOTELS campsite (14:30), as well as ZTE facing Gorica (10:30) and Koper (13:00) on 17 January.

The successful organization of these preparations has for many years been led by B4 - agency specializing in winter and summer training camps for clubs of various profiles.
Through a long-standing partnership with Plava Laguna, clubs are provided with comprehensive support – from accommodation and related services to excellently prepared football pitches and optimal working conditions.

The traditional combination of top-quality playing fields, proximity to the sea, and mild winter conditions once again confirms why Istria ranks among Europe’s most sought-after destinations for football training camps.