“Best Soldier 2025” winner Corporal Jan Vajčner proudly represents Croatian Armed Forces in Kosovo

Corporal Jan Vajčner of the Croatian Armed Forces, serving in the Support Command, has won the international “Best Soldier 2025” competition organised by the Kosovo Security Forces in Kosovo.

Commenting on his achievement, Corporal Vajčner said: “It was an honour to represent Croatia and compete in this year’s competition in Kosovo. I am proud to have secured first place in the competition as a member of the Croatian Armed Forces.”

Discussing his preparation, Vajčner said that most of his training took place during his free time: “About 70% of my preparation involved running or marching with load, while the remaining 30% consisted of strength training, orientation, and similar activities, along with shooting range practice. Valuable experience gained from previous competitions played a key role in my success. I have competed twice in the “First for Croatia” competition and I regularly participate in various races across the country.”

He also credited his unit for their support: “I would like to thank my unit, especially my company, for their assistance during preparations, particularly with topography and related skills. Their support was crucial in achieving this result.”

Corporal Vajčner praised the competition format: “The competition demanded a well-rounded skill set — competitors had to demonstrate not only physical fitness but also advanced soldiering skills. Being physically fit alone wasn’t enough; balance was essential.”

He concluded by emphasising the value of competing alongside soldiers from other countries: “We met many people from different nations, which was useful for building new friendships and exchanging experiences.”

This year’s competition took place at the “Skënderbeu” Barracks in Ferizaj from 21 to 25 April 2025. Since 2017, the event has grown into an international competition, with Croatian Armed Forces personnel participating regularly.

A total of 44 competitors took part, including 21 from the Kosovo Security Forces and 23 international participants representing the Armed Forces of Albania, North Macedonia, the United States, Turkey, Montenegro, and Croatia.

Alongside Corporal Vajčner, the Croatian team included Sergeant Jozo Proljić, team leader; Corporal Marina Lovrić, who finished 19th; and a member of the Croatian Army’s Guards Mechanised Brigade, who placed 6th. The Croatian Armed Forces were represented with distinction, meeting all required standards across every discipline.

A member of the Albanian Armed Forces took second place, with third going to a competitor from the U.S. National Guard.

The competition comprised the following disciplines: physical fitness tests (push-ups and sit-ups within two minutes, and a 3,200-metre run), daytime and night navigation, rifle and pistol shooting at various distances, overcoming infantry obstacles, hand grenade throwing, first aid, and an orienteering march carrying weaponry, a protective helmet, and equipment weighing 10 kilograms.