Definition
FK Sarajevo is a professional association football club based in Sarajevo, the capital city of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The club competes in the Premier League of Bosnia and Herzegery and participates in domestic cup competitions and European tournaments.
Overview
Founded on 24 October 1946, FK Sarajevo quickly became one of the most prominent football organizations in the former Yugoslavia and, after the breakup of Yugoslavia, in independent Bosnia and Herzegovina. The team plays its home matches at the Asim Ferhatović Hase Stadium, historically known as Koševo Stadium, which has a capacity of approximately 34,500 spectators. The club's traditional colors are maroon and white, and its supporters are organized under the fan group called “Horde Zla” (Hordes of Evil).
Since the establishment of the Premier League of Bosnia and Herzegovina in 2000, FK Sarajevo has secured multiple league titles and Bosnia and Herzegovina Cup victories, establishing itself as a leading force in the country's football hierarchy. The club also regularly participates in UEFA competitions, including the UEFA Europa League and its predecessor, the UEFA Cup, achieving several qualification rounds.
Etymology/Origin
The abbreviation “FK” stands for “Fudbalski klub,” the Bosnian/Serbian/Croatian term for “football club.” “Sarajevo” refers to the city in which the club is based, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The full name therefore translates directly to “Football Club Sarajevo.”
Characteristics
-
Organizational Structure: FK Sarajevo operates as a joint-stock company (JSC), with ownership divided among the City of Sarajevo, private investors, and a public shareholding structure. The club’s management includes a board of directors and a sporting director responsible for football operations.
-
Stadium: Asim Ferhatović Hase Stadium is located in the Koševo neighborhood of Sarajevo. It was renovated multiple times, most notably for the 1984 Winter Olympics, and serves as the primary venue for both club matches and occasional national team fixtures.
-
Team Colors and Crest: The club’s kit features a dominant maroon (often described as “Bordo”) with white accents. The crest incorporates the stylized initials “FK” and a representation of the Sarajevo city skyline, reflecting local identity.
-
Achievements:
- Premier League of Bosnia and Herzegovina champions (multiple seasons, including 1998–99, 2006–07, 2014–15, 2018–19, 2020–21).
- Bosnia and Herzegovina Cup winners (several editions, most recently 2018–19).
- Notable runs in UEFA competition qualifiers, reaching the play‑off round of the 2022–23 UEFA Europa Conference League.
-
Youth Development: The club operates a comprehensive youth academy that has produced several professional players, including international stars such as Edin Džeko, who started his youth career at FK Sarajevo before transferring to larger European clubs.
-
Supporter Culture: The “Horde Zla” supporters are known for vibrant match‑day choreography, vocal support, and active involvement in club affairs. Their presence contributes significantly to the stadium atmosphere.
Related Topics
- Premier League of Bosnia and Herzegovina – the top tier of Bosnian football in which FK Sarajevo competes.
- Asim Ferhatović Hase Stadium – the home ground of FK Sarajevo.
- Bosnia and Herzegovina national football team – many FK Sarajevo players have represented the national side.
- Horde Zla – the main supporter group of FK Sarajevo.
- Edin Džeko – a notable graduate of FK Sarajevo’s youth system who achieved international fame.
- Football in the former Yugoslavia – historical context for FK Sarajevo’s early development and competition.