Botev Plovdiv President Iliyan Filipov Fatally Shot Outside Home, Bulgarian Football in Mourning
Botev Plovdiv President Killed Outside Residence
Iliyan Filipov, president of Botev Plovdiv, was fatally shot outside his home in Bulgaria's second-largest city, Plovdiv. The incident occurred around 1 a.m. on Wednesday. Police responded swiftly after receiving an emergency call reporting a gunshot victim. Upon arrival, they found Filipov, a 53-year-old businessman and club leader, deceased. Authorities have launched a homicide investigation but have yet to reveal any suspects or motives.
Club Mourns the Loss of Their Leader
The football community is deeply shaken by the tragic death of Filipov, who played a pivotal role in saving Botev Plovdiv during the summer of 2025. He was also instrumental in the complete renovation of the Hristo Botev Stadium, now regarded as Bulgaria's most modern sports arena.
In an Instagram statement, the club said:
"PFC Botev Plovdiv expresses its profound sorrow over the tragic passing of club president Iliyan Filipov. The club's management, players, and staff extend their deepest condolences to his family, relatives, and friends. Filipov will forever remain part of Botev Plovdiv’s history. His efforts in saving the club and dedication to the yellow-and-black cause will be remembered by everyone in our family.His name will be written in golden letters for generations, having overseen the successful completion of the stadium reconstruction. We stand with his family and loved ones in this difficult time. May he rest in peace."
Football Activities Suspended Amid Grief
The shooting has brought back memories of violent crimes from the 1990s in Bulgaria, occurring now during a politically tense period ahead of the upcoming presidential election. Out of respect, Botev Plovdiv has paused all sporting events and entered an official mourning period.
- Cancelled friendly: Botev Plovdiv vs. Septemvri Sofia
- Men's first team training: Cancelled immediately following the tragedy
- Youth academy matches: Postponed for the upcoming weekend
- First-team training sessions: To be held behind closed doors until the league match against Slavia on October 10
- Media appearances: Suspended during mourning period
The club added, "Iliyan Filipov dreamed of a strong and united Botev, a club the entire city could take pride in. Botev is eternal!"
Team Prepares for Competitive Return
Following this difficult time, Botev Plovdiv will focus on regaining mental strength before resuming their league campaign at home versus Slavia Sofia on October 10. Currently sixth in the Bulgarian First League, the Canaries have 16 points from 10 matches, trailing leaders Levski Sofia by nine points despite playing one more game.
The coaching staff intends to work quietly behind closed doors, prioritizing the team's psychological recovery while aiming to maintain hopes for European qualification.
Upcoming Match Details
- Date: October 10, 2026
- Competition: Bulgarian First Professional League
- Match: Botev Plovdiv vs. Slavia Sofia
- Kickoff: 20:00 local time
