The 36th Men’s European Water Polo Championships get underway this weekend in Belgrade, returning continental water polo to one of its most iconic venues. Yet this edition is not defined only by location or tradition. A revised competition format, generational shifts among the elite, and an unusually deep field have created a tournament where endurance and consistency may matter more than one-off brilliance.
A format that changes everything
For the first time in decades, the European Championships will be played without quarter-finals. Instead, the top three teams from each of the four preliminary groups advance to a second group phase, forming two six-team groups. Results between teams that have already played each other are carried over.
The format has divided opinion. Some coaches welcome the removal of the “sudden-death” quarter-final, where a single bad night can end a medal challenge. Others warn that the cumulative physical and mental load may punish teams without depth. What is certain is that there is no hiding place: slow starts are costly, and every group-stage match matters.
The balance of power: no easy half
On paper, Groups A and C look marginally stronger, while Groups B and D feature three traditional heavyweights fighting for two realistic semi-final tickets. In practice, the margin between advancement and elimination has rarely been thinner.
Group A: pedigree, transition, and ambition
Hungary, Montenegro, France, Malta
Hungary
The most decorated nation in the history of the sport arrives with a slightly younger roster than the team that reached the 2025 World Championship final. Under Zsolt Varga, Hungary remain tactically flexible and technically elite.
While only a handful of players were part of the 2020 European title-winning squad, the Hungarian system continues to produce leaders. A strong club backbone, particularly from Ferencváros, gives this team resilience even in rotation-heavy matches. Hungary may not dominate every opponent, but they remain among the most reliable teams in long-format tournaments.
Montenegro
Still adjusting after several cycles of renewal, Montenegro now operate under the guidance of Dejan Savić, one of the most successful coaches of the modern era. This is a young, hungry roster, built less around individual stardom and more around collective discipline.
While recent years have not produced semifinal appearances at major tournaments, Montenegro’s trajectory suggests a team being shaped with Paris 2028 firmly in mind. Belgrade represents both a test and a measuring stick.
France
French water polo continues its steady rise, even if consistency remains elusive. Under Vjekoslav Kobešćak, France possess physicality, improved tactical structure, and a growing leadership core.
They have pushed elite opponents close more often than ever before, but turning competitive defeats into wins is still the next step. This tournament may define whether France truly consolidate their place among Europe’s top tier.
Malta
Malta arrive once again as underdogs, but not without intrigue. The inclusion of Ivan Nagaev gives them a genuine attacking threat capable of changing the complexion of individual matches. While progression remains unlikely, Malta are capable of disrupting group dynamics—and they know it.
Group C: champions, hosts, and rising challengers
Spain, Serbia, Netherlands, Israel
Spain
Reigning European and world champions, Spain enter a new chapter following the retirement of Felipe Perrone. His absence removes one of the great strategic minds of the modern game, but the core remains formidable.
Led by players such as Álvaro Granados and Alberto Munárriz, Spain’s collective understanding and tempo control are unmatched. Since 2018, they have lost only once in regulation at the European Championships. The question is not whether Spain are contenders—but whether anyone can outlast them across the format.
Serbia
Olympic champions and hosts, Serbia carry both expectation and pressure. Since their golden era peaked in 2018, results at European and World Championships have fluctuated, despite Olympic success.
With leaders like Dušan Mandić and Nikola Jakšić, Serbia remain dangerous in any scenario. Home support in Belgrade could be decisive—or demanding. Their ability to manage emotion may be as important as tactics.
Netherlands
Perhaps the most interesting outsider in the group. The Dutch have shown tangible progress over the past year, with encouraging results in international competition and a growing number of players competing in top European leagues.
While a top-four finish remains ambitious, the Netherlands are no longer a team that favourites can afford to overlook.
Israel
Qualification alone marks success for Israel, who continue to gain valuable experience at this level. While still some distance from Europe’s elite, repeated exposure to top-tier competition remains crucial for long-term growth.
Group B: three contenders, one tight margin
Croatia, Greece, Georgia, Slovenia
Croatia
Few teams have matched Croatia’s consistency across recent major tournaments. Under Ivica Tucak, continuity and experience define the squad.
This may be the last European Championship for several veterans, adding emotional weight to their campaign. Croatia’s challenge is less about quality and more about managing fatigue across the extended format.
Greece
Still searching for their first European Championship medal, Greece arrive once again as genuine contenders. Recent silverware at World Cup and World Championship level underlines their credentials.
With a balanced roster and long-term continuity under Theodoros Vlachos, Greece may finally be poised to break their European curse.
Georgia
A solid, physical side with players spread across strong European leagues, Georgia are capable of punishing complacency. While upsetting Croatia or Greece would be a surprise, Georgia are well-positioned to challenge for progression.
Slovenia
Back at the European Championships under Mirko Vičević, Slovenia face a demanding group. Qualification itself is an achievement, but points will be hard-earned.
Group D: opportunity and uncertainty
Italy, Romania, Slovakia, Türkiye
Italy
Perhaps the great unknown of Belgrade. Italy have entered a transitional phase, leaving several established stars at home. Yet preparation results have been quietly impressive, and Alessandro Campagna has built competitive teams for nearly two decades.
This group should allow Italy to build momentum before facing the true tests in Phase II.
Romania
Consistent participants without a medal to show for it, Romania remain competitive and increasingly organised. With strong club representation in Europe, a top-eight finish is within reach.
Slovakia & Türkiye
Both sides see this tournament as a chance to progress beyond familiar classification battles. Neither will be easy opposition, and both have shown the capacity to frustrate more established teams.
What to expect in Belgrade
This European Championship feels less predictable than most. The format rewards depth, patience, and adaptability, not just star power. Spain remain the benchmark. Serbia, Croatia, Hungary, Greece, and Italy all possess realistic medal ambitions. Behind them, a growing middle tier is ready to exploit any slip.
In Belgrade, nothing will be decided in a single night—but everything will be earned the hard way.
European Championships 2026 Homepage
Visit the WP360 Shop!
Follow Waterpolo 360 on Facebook, Instagram and X