Botev Plovdiv President Iliyan Filipov Fatally Shot Outside Home, Bulgarian Football in Mourning
Botev Plovdiv President Killed Near Residence
Iliyan Filipov, the president of Botev Plovdiv, was tragically shot dead outside his home in Plovdiv, Bulgaria’s second-largest city. The incident occurred around 1 a.m. on Wednesday, shocking the Bulgarian football community. Police quickly responded to an emergency call reporting a shooting and found Filipov deceased at the scene. Investigations into the homicide are underway, but no suspects or motives have been made public yet.
Club Honors Its Leader
The club expressed deep sorrow after losing a man credited with rescuing the team in summer 2025 and leading the complete renovation of the Hristo Botev Stadium. On Instagram, the club stated:
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. Iliyan Filipov will forever remain part of Botev Plovdiv’s history. His contribution to saving the club in the summer of 2025 and his 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 to come, having overseen the successful completion of the reconstruction of the Hristo Botev Stadium, turning it into Bulgaria’s most modern sports venue. In this difficult moment, we all stand by his family, loved ones, and friends. May he rest in peace.
Operations Halted as Club Mourns
The murder stirred painful memories of 1990s mafia-style killings during tense political times. In response, Botev Plovdiv suspended all sporting activities and declared a mourning period. The planned friendly match against Septemvri Sofia was canceled, and the first-team’s training session was called off so players and staff could grieve.
The club announced further measures:
- All youth academy matches scheduled for the weekend postponed.
- First-team training sessions until October 10 will be closed to the public.
- No media appearances will be made by the club during this period.
The statement concluded, "Iliyan Filipov dreamed and fought for a strong and united Botev. A club the entire city could be proud of. Botev is eternal!"
Team Prepares for Return to Competition
Botev Plovdiv now faces the challenge of regrouping while still grieving before resuming league play against Slavia Sofia on October 10. Currently sixth in the Bulgarian First League with 16 points from 10 matches, they trail leaders Levski Sofia by nine points despite having played one more game. Coaching staff will work behind closed doors to restore focus and maintain hopes for European qualification.
- Next Match: Botev Plovdiv vs Slavia Sofia
- Date: 10 October 2026
- Competition: Bulgarian First Professional League
