Nikola Jakšić will be available for Serbia in Sunday’s European Championship final against Hungary after the European Aquatics Water Polo Committee overturned the automatic one-match suspension stemming from his red card in the semi-final win over Italy in Belgrade.
The Serbian captain was sent off during the second semi-final, triggering widespread debate over whether the dismissal would result in an automatic ban under the competition regulations. A direct red card for brutality normally carries a mandatory suspension, raising doubts over Jakšić’s availability for the gold-medal match.
However, following an appeal submitted by the Water Polo Federation of Serbia, the suspension was lifted, and head coach Uroš Stevanović will have a full squad available for the final at the Belgrade Arena.
Decision explained
The incident that led to Jakšić’s dismissal was reviewed by the European Aquatics Technical Committee, which ultimately concluded that while the action warranted a red card, it did not meet the threshold for brutality.
Dr. Tamás Molnár, a member of the international decision-making committee, explained his position in a statement released by the Hungarian Water Polo Federation. Given Hungary’s involvement in the final, Molnár officially abstained from voting but shared his professional assessment.
“In my opinion, the incident deserved a red card, but it was not brutality. From the perspective of the future of water polo, it is important that no one suffers an unjust disadvantage. This principle must apply even when the Hungarians might have benefited from a suspension, and I would say the same if a Hungarian player were involved.”
Hungarian federation president Norbert Madaras also addressed the decision, underlining Hungary’s commitment to fair play.
“For the Hungarian national team, it is never a question that we want to compete under fair and clean conditions. Some might have welcomed facing Serbia without one of their key players, but in the spirit of fair play, we accept the committee’s decision.”
Serbia strengthened for the final
The ruling means Serbia will line up at full strength in a final that already carries enormous weight. The hosts are chasing another European title in front of a sold-out Belgrade Arena, while Hungary are aiming to add a 14th continental gold to their history.
Jakšić’s availability is a major boost for Serbia, not only tactically but also emotionally. Shortly after the decision was confirmed, the 29-year-old captain posted a brief message on Instagram:
“See you in the final.”
Serbia’s squad has spoken openly about the importance of entering the final without uncertainty hanging over the team. Nikola Lukić stressed the need for focus and intensity, particularly after the dramatic group-stage clash between the two sides.
“We know them well. We must not relax like we did in the closing stages of the first match. It’s a final — desire, details and the crowd can decide it.”
Petar Jakšić also highlighted the importance of aggression and support from the stands, while Vasilije Martinović emphasised that fatigue will play no role in a match of this magnitude.
“It’s the best and easiest match to play — the final. We’ll give the last atom of strength to win.”
Hungary: respect and preparation
Hungary head coach Zsolt Varga praised Serbia’s quality and depth, describing the final as a meeting of the two most complete teams at the tournament.
“They are Olympic champions playing in front of their own crowd. With Jakšić, they are stronger — but even without him, they are a team worthy of full respect.”
Varga singled out Dušan Mandić as Serbia’s standout threat but also pointed to Miloš Ćuk’s leadership and experience as key factors in Serbia’s structure.
Countdown to the final
The European Championship final will be played on Sunday at 20:30 at the Belgrade Arena, with Serbia and Hungary renewing one of water polo’s great rivalries on the biggest stage.
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