Botev Plovdiv President Iliyan Filipov Fatally Shot Outside Home, Bulgarian Football in Mourning
Tragic Death of Botev Plovdiv President Iliyan Filipov
Bulgaria's football community is shaken after Iliyan Filipov, president of Botev Plovdiv, was fatally shot outside his home in Plovdiv, the country's second-largest city. The 53-year-old businessman and club leader was attacked in the early hours of Wednesday, prompting immediate investigation by local police.
Details of the Incident
The shooting occurred around 1 a.m., according to reports from The Associated Press. Police responded to an emergency call about a gunshot victim and found Filipov deceased at the scene. Authorities have opened a homicide investigation but have not yet revealed any suspects or motives.
Club Pays Tribute to Their Leader
The Botev Plovdiv organization expressed deep sorrow over Filipov's death. He was credited with rescuing the club during the summer of 2025 and leading the complete renovation of the Hristo Botev Stadium. In an Instagram statement, the club said:
"PFC Botev Plovdiv mourns the tragic loss of president Iliyan Filipov. Our management, players, and staff send heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and relatives. Iliyan Filipov will always be part of our history. His efforts to save the club and dedication to the yellow-and-black colors will never be forgotten.His legacy includes overseeing the transformation of the Hristo Botev Stadium into Bulgaria’s most modern sports arena. We stand united with his loved ones during this difficult time. May he rest in peace."
Mourning Brings Suspension of Club Activities
This event echoes the violent political atmosphere of the 1990s when public figures in Bulgaria were often targeted. Following the tragedy, Botev Plovdiv has paused all sporting events as a mark of respect. A scheduled friendly against Septemvri Sofia was cancelled, as was the men’s first-team training session on the day of the incident.
The club also postponed all youth academy matches for the coming weekend. Until their next league game against Slavia Sofia on October 10, all first-team training will be held without spectators, and players and staff will avoid media appearances. The club stated:
"Iliyan Filipov dreamed of a strong and united Botev, a club the whole city could take pride in. Botev is eternal!"
Team Faces Challenge Ahead
As Botev Plovdiv prepares to return to the league, they remain sixth in the Bulgarian First League with 16 points from 10 games. They trail leaders Levski Sofia by nine points but have played one more match. The coaching team aims to rebuild the squad’s mental strength quietly behind closed doors while maintaining hopes for European competition qualification.
- UEFA Nations League: Iceland vs Bulgaria, 3 Oct 2026, 19:00
- Bulgarian First League Match: Botev Plovdiv vs Slavia Sofia, 10 Oct 2026, 20:00
