Last night, Zagreb witnessed the biggest concert in its history, headlined by the controversial Marko Perković Thompson. Yes, you read that right — half a million people bought tickets for this spectacle that sparked a storm of reactions across the region. While fans enjoyed an atmosphere reminiscent of New Year’s Eve, political tensions and accusations were far from absent. Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić did not hold back, calling the concert “a support for neo-Nazi and Ustaša values” and predicting that all of Europe would remain silent. On the other hand, organizers and participants deny any quarrels, claiming life simply drifted them apart, and the concert atmosphere was full of unity and music.
The Zagreb Hippodrome was transformed into a massive stage with a platform as tall as a 12-story building, while fan zones were scattered across the city, from Bundek to downtown Zagreb. Despite rain spoiling plans for some attendees, it did not reduce the number of people who came to support Thompson. Police implemented special traffic regulations, and security services were on high alert for half a million people.
This concert is not just a musical event but a political phenomenon dividing the Balkans. While some celebrate, others condemn, and social media is ablaze with comments and debates. Is this just a concert or a symbol of deeper divisions? One thing is certain — Zagreb hasn’t seen such a crowd and attention in a long time. If you missed it, now’s the time to join the conversation and share your opinion — is Thompson a hero or a controversial symbol? Or maybe something in between?
Either way, half a million people can’t be wrong. Or can they? Comment, laugh, rage — but don’t stay indifferent!
