Milan Zupančič, one of the most respected figures in Yugoslav and Slovenian handball, has died at the age of 96, regional media reported.
Zupančič was widely regarded as an influential sports official whose work left a lasting mark on handball across the former Yugoslavia and later in independent Slovenia. Throughout his long career, he held important positions within the Handball Federation of Yugoslavia, where he was known as a capable organizer and a figure of strong authority.
One of the greatest successes connected to his tenure came in 1986, when Yugoslavia won the World Championship title. The Yugoslav team defeated Hungary 24–22 in the final in Zurich, securing one of the most memorable achievements in the history of the sport in the region.
After Slovenia gained independence, Zupančič became the first president of the Handball Federation of Slovenia. In that role, he helped build the foundations of the country’s modern handball system and contributed to the development of clubs, young players and the international recognition of Slovenian handball.
His death marks the loss of a major figure in regional sports history. Zupančič leaves behind a legacy of leadership, development and dedication to handball that continues to be recognized across Slovenia and the wider former Yugoslav region.
