Allegations of political influence: What's going on at the Croatian Lottery?

There has been no shortage of controversy across Europe recently. Following issues surrounding the Sports Totalizator in Bulgaria and Olympic Entertainment Group in Latvia, a new scandal has now emerged in Croatia, where the state-owned National Lottery operator, Hrvatska Lutrija, is significantly increasing its sponsorship spending.

The rise follows internal disagreements over earlier sponsorship proposals that were rejected by former CEO Ignacije Čutura, who considered the spending excessive. These disputes were followed by a leadership change.

The new CEO, Nikolina Klaić, is now under scrutiny after a criminal complaint triggered an investigation into the sharp rise in sponsorship budgets and allegations of workplace bullying

 Klaić has allegedly threatened the former CEO, claiming the increased spending was ordered by the Prime Minister, while Čutura was reportedly asked to finance specific sports organisations.

So what exactly is going on at the National Lottery operator?

Hrvatska Lutrija hikes 2026 sponsorship budget

Hrvatska Lutrija, the state-owned National Lottery operator, has confirmed a sharp increase in sponsorship spending, with its 2026 budget rising to €2.62m.

In 2024, by comparison, the operator allocated just €806,025 for sponsorship activities, while in 2025 the figure stood at €571,375.

What happened to the former CEO and why was he replaced?

In the 2025 business plan, a sponsorship funding increase of up to €1.5m was proposed. However, the plan was not approved by then-CEO Ignacije Čutura, who rejected it due to the high level of spending.

A revised proposal was later submitted in summer 2025, requesting an additional €1m for sponsorships, which Čutura again rejected.

According to reports, Čutura then came under direct pressure from Nikolina Klaić, who allegedly threatened him, claiming it was an order from the Prime Minister and warning that he would be dismissed. He was reported to have also asked to finance specific sports organisations.

After refusing these alleged requests, Čutura was removed from his position as CEO and replaced by Klaić.

Why has an investigation been launched?

A senior source from Hrvatska Lutrija told local media that the State Attorney’s Office (DORH), following a criminal complaint filed against CEO Klaić, has launched an investigation. Zagreb police have also carried out informal interviews and questioned several employees of the state-owned company.

The source claims the investigation is being conducted regarding large increases in sponsorship budgets and allegations of workplace bullying.

The same source said several witnesses told police that, during internal discussions about sponsorship funding, Klaić referred to instructions allegedly coming from the Prime Minister and interventions by Tourism and Sports Minister Tonči Glavina.

How has Hrvatska Lutrija responded to the allegations?

Hrvatska Lutrija has issued a response to local media stating: “Claims that the CEO Klaić referred to the Prime Minister or any minister are not true and we firmly reject such insinuations.

“Klaić has never used or implied political authority as a means of influence, nor has she attempted in any way to influence decision-making or change the positions of others. Likewise, neither the Prime Minister nor any ministers have ever given any instructions to the CEO regarding the company’s operations, including matters related to sponsorships.“

Hrvatska Lutrija told local media that the increase is linked to regulatory changes taking effect in 2026, including tighter restrictions on gambling advertising. The company said the higher figure reflects a restructuring of marketing expenditure rather than the introduction of new costs. It added that sponsorship activity is primarily focused on sport and culture.

So, while Croatia is far from the first nation to place heavy scrutiny on its National Lottery, the spotlight currently sits firmly on Hrvatska Lutrija. Become an Insider for free to receive personalised, tailored coverage like this relevant to your local market.