Controversy erupted in Zagreb following a massive concert by Croatian right-wing singer Marko Perković, known as Thompson. The event, which drew hundreds of thousands of fans, sparked widespread criticism due to the prominent display of pro-Nazi salutes and the chanting of slogans associated with Croatia’s World War II-era fascist Ustaše regime.
Record-Breaking Concert Draws Massive Crowd
Marko Perković’s concert at the Zagreb Hippodrome on July 5, 2025, was touted as a record-breaking event, with organizers claiming over 500,000 attendees. This figure reportedly surpassed the previous world record for the largest paid concert. The sheer scale of the event presented significant logistical and security challenges, managed by nearly 14,000 personnel.
Controversial Salutes and Chants Ignite Outrage
Despite the concert’s massive attendance, it was overshadowed by the widespread use of the
Sources:
- Thousands in Zagreb for Croatian nationalist singer’s ‘record breaking’ concert, Reuters.
- VIDEO: Thompson plays to 504,000 to break world record in Zagreb, Croatia Week.
- Thompson Concert in Zagreb Sparks Jitters About Fascist Chants, Balkan Insight.
- Croatian right-wing singer Marko Perković and fans perform pro-Nazi salute at massive concert, NBC News.
- Croatia Braces for Nationalist ‘Phenomenon’ Thompson’s Mega-Gig, Balkan Insight.
