The Romanian Water Polo Federation condemns insults, assaults and vandalism at a junior match

The Romanian Water Polo Federation announced on Tuesday that it is investigating an incident involving verbal and physical violence that took place on Monday, October 5, 2026, at the Floreasca Pool in Bucharest, following the U16 junior match between Dinamo Bucharest and Rapid Bucharest. According to the official match report, a parent and supporter of the Rapid team allegedly hurled insults for several minutes at a Dinamo player and his coaches. The conflict reportedly escalated, culminating in an attempted assault and the hitting of one of the coaches.

The Disciplinary Commission of the Romanian Water Polo Federation has initiated the procedures set out in the regulations, and a decision is expected in the coming period. The federation says it has zero tolerance for aggressive behavior and calls on parents, coaches and supporters to behave civilly.

Following checks and a review of surveillance camera footage, acts of vandalism were also identified in the locker room used by Rapid’s players. Wastebaskets, informational materials and a surveillance camera were damaged, and the athletes involved were identified.

The incident comes after a fight between parents at a girls’ junior handball match held in Timișoara. One man was detained, and police opened a criminal case for assault or other violence and disturbing public order and peace.