John Malkovich, NBA champion Toni Kukoč, and Croatian soccer legend Luka Modrić walked into a bar, setting a lively scene Saturday evening at the AKA Hotel in Alexandria, Va.
This was not the beginning of a joke but rather a gathering hosted by the Croatian National Tourist Board. The event celebrated Croatia’s participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup this summer and attracted a diverse crowd of athletes, business leaders, diplomats, and members of the Croatian-American community to the hotel’s rooftop near Washington.
For Croatia, a nation with a population of under four million, the World Cup represents more than just a sports competition. Having reached the final in 2018 and the semifinals in 2022, the tournament serves as a powerful tool for soft power, allowing the country to project its brand globally, boosting tourism, investment, and cultural influence.
“This opportunity is a huge push forward for a promotion of our country,” stated Kristjan Staničić, director of the Croatian National Tourist Board, during an interview.
Staničić highlighted that the United States has become a significant market for Croatian tourism, with American visitors on the rise since the pandemic. He noted that Americans are increasingly seeing Croatia as a year-round destination rather than just a summer getaway along the Adriatic coast.
“The FIFA World Cup is the most popular sporting event in the world,” Staničić remarked. “This will undoubtedly enhance Croatia’s visibility in the coming months. We welcome everyone, especially American tourists.”
Throughout the evening, Croatian officials emphasized the country’s growing list of celebrity supporters. Tourism and Sports Minister Tonči Glavina praised an impressive lineup of ambassadors for Croatian tourism, mentioning athletes like LeBron James, Rafael Nadal, and Kyle Kuzma, who are helping to elevate the country’s international profile.
The celebrity theme continued on stage with Malkovich, who received his Croatian passport at the event. He appeared with director Pete Radovich, a CBS Sports executive, to promote a new initiative with the Croatian National Tourist Board.
Radovich shared a story about securing Croatian citizenship for football coach Bill Belichick and recounted a conversation with former NFL player Jason Kelce. After Radovich revealed his Croatian roots, Kelce initially thought his family’s origins were elsewhere. The next day, Kelce texted Radovich, saying, “Thanks for last night. Great conversation. By the way, I talked to my mom, we’re Croatian.” Radovich then suggested Kelce apply for citizenship too, though it’s unclear if Kelce has pursued that option.
Regarding Croatia’s prospects on the field, they are set to play against England on Wednesday in Arlington, Texas. Staničić expressed confidence in the team’s abilities.
“I hope there aren’t any injuries,” he said. “I think they’re the best. They’re going to the final.”
