Viking captain Tripić claims media smear campaign followed Olise red card controversy

Viking FK captain Zlatko Tripić says he has been subjected to a public smear campaign following the media reaction to his role in provoking Michael Olise into being sent off during the Norwegian side’s dramatic 3-3 draw with Bayern Munich in the Champions League on October 13, 2026.

Tripić openly admitted after the match that he had deliberately tried to provoke Olise during the encounter, hoping to unsettle the Bayern Munich winger and make him lose his composure.

The incident sparked a strong reaction from Bayern sporting director Max Eberl, who criticised the Viking captain’s conduct and accused him of using unsporting tactics to provoke the young winger.

Tripić has now spoken about the personal consequences of the controversy, revealing that the widespread attention has affected both him and his family.

“I wouldn’t want anyone to go through what I’ve been through. I feel like my name is being used constantly right now, and that the story is being milked for all it’s worth everywhere. It’s being portrayed as if I broke Michael Olise’s leg, and as if I were a terrible person during that match,” Tripić told Norwegian outlet VG.

The Viking captain insisted that his actions during the game had been exaggerated, adding: “I committed one foul.”

He also criticised sections of the Norwegian media, arguing that their coverage had contributed to the backlash and hostile messages he has received since the incident.

“I believe the Norwegian media is helping to fuel this narrative. I think everyone needs to take responsibility and show that we care about one another. It feels like every media outlet and individual is pouncing on this story,” he said.

Tripić urged people to consider the impact of the criticism, warning that some of the messages he had received had crossed the line.

“I think people should be a bit careful; if you had seen some of the things I’ve received, you’d realize that it’s not okay.”

The controversy comes amid a busy period for Viking FK, with Tripić starting as captain before being substituted in the 74th minute for Amin Cosic during Wednesday evening’s 3-1 defeat against Aston Villa.