Slovenians think even to leave EHF EURO 2018

The Handball Association of Slovenia has issued an official appeal with the EHF following the game between Slovenia and Germany regarding infrigment of rules that resulted in significant damages to team Slovenia

At the end of the game against the standing European Champions in which team Slovenia showed an outstanding performance and was on the brink of victory, the referees decided to review footage of the match and issue a belated penalty shot, ending the game at 25:25. The management of RZS decided to file an appeal with the EHF immediately after the game, as the referees infringed on the rules of the game in the last attack by issuing Blaž Blagotinšek a red card and awarding a penalty shot to team Germany.

The rules of the game state that Blaž Blagotinšek should have been penalized with a two minute penalty for obstructing team Germany in their attack and the attack should have been repeated, yet the officials issued a red card and awarded a penalty shot to the opposing team which was successful for a draw at 25. This was in clear violation of handball rules for which The Handball Association of Slovenia has issued an official appeal. This appeal however was rejected with an explanation that the Association can not object or appeal referee decisions.

The management of RZS disagrees with the EHF interpretation, as this is not an appeal against a call by the referees, but a clear violation of the rules of handball. It will therefore take further action and is considering a legal claim against the EHF, as well as an appeal with the Court of Arbitration of Sports (CAS). At the same time The Handball Association of Slovenia is, as a result of a clear infringement resulting in damages to team Slovenia, also considering to recall its team from the competition.

We will keep you informed of all future steps.