When the world’s best handball players face off at the Paris Summer Olympics, someone from our own ranks is at the forefront: Mirza Kurtagic, Global MNC Key Account Manager at DHL Freight. In his native Sweden and in the international handball scene, however, he is also known for another job – as a handball referee, most recently at the 2024 European Men’s Handball Championship in Germany.
More than enough reason for us to catch up with him on the sidelines and ask him 10 questions about the versatility of life. Now in the spotlight of the world in Paris – and soon back in Sweden to work with us on the logistics of the future.
Photos: Kolektiff
You have been a successful handball referee for many years. When did you start playing Handball and at what age did you start refereeing?
I started playing Handball, among other sports, as a young kid in my hometown of Uddevalla in Sweden. It was first at age of 16 that I started to support my club with refereeing.
And when did you start officiating your first games at the international level?
It was back in 2011 that we were eligible to whistle continental (European) matches.
After the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Summer Games, you are currently participating in your second Olympics in Paris - how does it feel to be a referee at the Olympic Games?
It is a great privilege and honor, to be selected among the best 16 referee couples in the world and to participate in the Olympics. A dream come true already in Tokyo 2020, and when you enter the field of play, passing the Olympic rings, is an amazing feeling, and still is. In Paris 2024 we are also able to feel the Olympic family spirit, meeting athletes from all sports, continents and also seeing your loved ones at stands, this is something which was very difficult during the Tokyo 2020 due to Covid restrictions.
What is the pressure like to officiate in such a prestigious tournament, and how do you deal with it?
Actually, the pressure and own requirements to deliver on highest level is something which we put on ourselves in every match, regardless of the match or tournament. But of course, at the Olympics there are fewer teams, it is only every 4 years and is a dream of all athletes. However ,as I mentioned, each tournament is a dream for respective athlete, and this responsibility and approach to whistle each match, as if it was your last – is very important to us. To honor and respect the athletes taking part in the match.
How do you handle difficult decisions and how do you respond to possible protests from players or coaches?
It is important to be consistent, fair and have good communication. We have had the opportunity to whistle most of the teams and players, so we have built up good cooperation and mutual understanding.
The group stage has just ended, and now it's time for the main round - are there any specific games or moments that have stood out so far?
The great Olympic family spirit at the Games is something that is very unique.
What are your long-term goals and ambitions as a handball referee?
As the players, we are as well competing for the final matches, always developing, taking steps in right direction. When we started our career, we were asked the same question in an interview with a newspaper in Sweden. Back then our goal was to whistle at the Olympics, now our goal is to whistle an Olympic final.
How do you manage to balance your role as a handball referee with your job at DHL Freight?
Without the support from DHL, the Swedish DHL Freight organization and my manager (Martin Almslätt), it would not be feasible for me to pursue the Olympic dream and to whistle in our domestic Swedish league, in Champions League and Euro / World Championships without this support. It requires a lot of planning, a lot of own responsibility and flexibility. Trust is the keyword, and this is something which I feel I am trusted upon. Not to say great understanding and acceptance from my family, the word work-life balance has a new dimension.
Are there any similarities between your work at DHL Freight and your role as a referee?
I have been privileged to work in different roles during my 17 years at DHL Freight, nevertheless most roles have required accountability either towards internal stakeholders or external customers. The parts which I take with me from being a referee is of course the leadership skills, the communication skills and the importance of a clear and understandable communication, as well as taking tough decisions. And coming with this, the ability to sell the decision taken.
How do your colleagues and superiors at DHL Freight react to your role as a referee at the Olympic Games?
It has been great! I have really felt around the organization, and not only in Sweden, but also around the DHL Freight community, great support as many colleagues have taken contact, sent best wishes and asking which matches we will whistle in order to follow us. I was recently in an internal meeting call and by the end of the call I was recognized for my Olympic participation. I have felt the pride among colleagues seeing me and knowing that a fellow DHL colleague is an Olympic participant. Thank you all for your great support!
