Botev Plovdiv President Iliyan Filipov Shot Dead Outside Home
Shock in Bulgarian Football After Botev Plovdiv President Killed
Iliyan Filipov, president of Botev Plovdiv, was fatally shot outside his home in Bulgaria’s second-largest city, Plovdiv. Police confirmed the incident took place in the early hours of Wednesday, sparking a homicide investigation.
Details of the Incident
The shooting occurred around 1 a.m., with local authorities receiving an emergency call reporting gunfire. Upon arrival, they found Filipov, a 53-year-old businessman and club leader, dead at the scene. Investigators are still looking into the motive and have not named any suspects yet.
Club Mourns Their Leader
Botev Plovdiv expressed deep sorrow over the loss of Filipov, who had been credited with rescuing the club in summer 2025 and overseeing the full renovation of the Hristo Botev Stadium.
PFC Botev Plovdiv shares profound grief on the passing of club president Iliyan Filipov. Our management, players, and staff send heartfelt condolences to his family and friends. His legacy in saving the club and dedication to our yellow-and-black colors will never be forgotten. The reconstruction of the Hristo Botev Stadium, turning it into Bulgaria’s most modern sports venue, stands as his lasting contribution. We stand united with his loved ones during this difficult time. May he rest in peace.
Operations Suspended Amid Mourning
The tragedy brought back memories of violent attacks common in Bulgaria during the 1990s, a period marked by mafia-style killings amid political tensions ahead of next month’s presidential election. In response, the club paused all sporting events and entered a mourning period.
- Cancelled: Friendly match against Septemvri Sofia
- Training: Today’s men’s first-team session cancelled
- Youth Matches: All academy games for the weekend postponed
- Future Plans: First-team training behind closed doors until the league game on October 10 against Slavia Sofia; no media appearances
The club emphasized Filipov’s dream of a strong, united Botev that the city could be proud of, declaring: "Botev is eternal!"
Team Faces Challenges Ahead
As the team copes with grief, they prepare to resume their campaign on October 10 at home versus Slavia Sofia. Currently, Botev Plovdiv sits sixth in the Bulgarian First League with 16 points from 10 matches, nine points behind leaders Levski Sofia who have played one fewer game. The coaching staff aims to restore focus and mental strength while keeping hopes alive for European qualification.
