Istra 1961

NK Istra 1961 is a Croatian football club located in Pula. The side currently competes in the Prva HNL.

The club was founded in 1961 as a result of the amalgamation of NK Uljanik and NK Pula. NK Istra 1961 started its football journey from the Croatian Third Division. In the 2000/2001 campaign the team earned promotion to the second tier. In 2002 Istra beat many teams in a stunning journey to the inaugural Croatian Cup Final but lost to Hajduk in a decisive match. In the 2003/2004 NK Istra 1961 secured promotion to the Prva HNL as the club went up as Second Division champions. Soon the side was taken over by Russian businessman Mikhail Shcheglov. Igor Pamić currently trains the squad.

Verudeži play their home matches at Aldo Drosina Stadium which can hold up to 10,000 spectators.