SlovenščinaRogaška Slatina, a town renowned for its rich tradition, spa heritage, and exceptional natural beauty, is preparing to host one of the most important cultural events of the year – the International Sport Film Festival (ISFF), which will take place from 17 to 19 June 2026. This year’s edition, already the fifth, promises to be an outstanding experience, as the organizers have received a large number of film submissions distinguished by their diversity, quality, and inspiring sports stories. The program will bring together films from all corners of the world, with Slovenian productions holding a special place of pride.
Professional Jury: A Synergy of Experience and Passion
The selection of the best films is entrusted to a distinguished international professional jury, once again chaired by Metka Dedakovič, a renowned dramaturge and long-time editor at RTV Slovenia. She is joined by:
- Branka Bešević Gajić, an acclaimed film professional from Belgrade and a member of the European Film Academy based in Berlin,
- Aca Avramović, a Serbian journalist, filmmaker, and artistic director of the Zlatibor Festival,
- Florjan Skubic, Program Editor at TV Arena,
- Vojko Korošec, the Director of the ŠKL Institute, holder of the international film festival license under the auspices of FICTS (Fédération Internationale Cinéma Télévision Sportifs) from Milan, which brings together 134 member organizations and 21 festivals worldwide.
The jury faces the demanding task of selecting, from the films chosen for festival screening, four finalists in each category who will compete for the festival awards. As in previous years, selected films will also be presented outside Rogaška Slatina, namely in Ljubljana at Odiseja, where the highlight of the evening on Thursday, 18 June 2026, will be the ceremonial premiere of the documentary film about the Slovenian national volleyball team, The Brotherhood of the Court. The exact dates and screening times will be announced in May.
Awards, Guests, and Accompanying Events
In addition to film screenings, the festival will feature a variety of accompanying events. The organizers will present traditional Lifetime Achievement Awards in the fields of sport and culture. The festival will also be enriched by distinguished guests from Slovenia and abroad, whose presence will enhance the international character of the event and provide valuable opportunities for networking and the exchange of experiences.
The festival will once again host the popular Mini Olympics, which will take place on Friday, 19 June, in front of the 2nd Primary School of Rogaška Slatina.
Films Also Available on TV Arena
For those unable to attend the festival in person, a selection of films will also be available on TV Arena, where the audience will have the opportunity to participate in a public vote. The winning film will receive the TV Arena Award as well as an entry to the final of the international sport film festivals, which will take place in Milan in November this year.