Former Inter and AC Milan defender Dario Šimić has been arrested in Croatia as part of an anti-corruption investigation linked to allegedly irregular permits for a campsite in Tisno.
Croatian media reported that the 50-year-old was detained in Zagreb alongside two other people, including a former regional tourism official. The investigation is being conducted by Croatia’s anti-corruption authorities and police.
Investigators are examining how permits were obtained for the operation of a private campsite near Tisno, on Croatia’s Adriatic coast.
According to reports, Šimić is suspected of having obtained the necessary authorisations improperly with the assistance of former tourism department official Neda Livljanić. His lawyer said he is being investigated on suspicion of encouraging the abuse of office and authority.
The case reportedly concerns decisions taken between 2020 and 2021. Investigators suspect permits were issued despite parts of the land being classified as unsuitable for development and failing to meet the required planning conditions.
The allegations remain under investigation and no court has established Šimić’s guilt.
Šimić built much of his playing career in Italy after joining Inter from Dinamo Zagreb in January 1999. He spent three-and-a-half seasons with the Nerazzurri before moving across the city to AC Milan in 2002.
🚨 Former Croatia international Dario Šimić has reportedly been arrested by USKOK in a corruption investigation.
— Croatian Football (@CroatiaFooty) July 14, 2026
According to Jutarnji list, investigators suspect Šimić illegally obtained work permits for his camp in Tisno through former Šibenik-Knin County tourism official Neda… pic.twitter.com/HpXXvZ4V24
The versatile defender, who could operate at centre-back or right-back, enjoyed his greatest club success with Milan. He won the Serie A title, Coppa Italia, two UEFA Champions League trophies, the UEFA Super Cup and the FIFA Club World Cup during his time with the Rossoneri.
Šimić left Milan for Monaco in 2008 before ending his playing career following a brief return to Dinamo Zagreb.
At international level, he made 100 appearances for Croatia and became the first player to reach that landmark for the national team. He was also part of the Croatian squad that finished third at the 1998 FIFA World Cup in France.
The investigation remains ongoing, with the Croatian judicial authorities assessing the position of Šimić and the other individuals involved.
