Sofia, November 27, 2023 –Â Borislav Mihailov, the Bulgarian Football Union (BFU) President, announced his resignation today during a crucial Executive Committee meeting held at the “Boyana” National Football Base.
Mihailov, who had been at the helm of the BFU, revealed that his decision to step down was a proactive measure to “calm everyone down,” emphasizing that any demands from football clubs did not prompt it.Â
Addressing the criticisms faced during his tenure, he defended the achievements under his leadership, highlighting the development of a youth talent system, improvements to the Bulgarian championship, and significant infrastructural enhancements, including the inauguration of 19 new pitches.
“Since my return alone, 19 pitches have been put into operation. The organizational structure was renewed with young and talented people. We would have done even more if we had not become an outlet. I am truly proud of what has been achieved. These are facts, and no one will say anything against them,” emphasized Mihailov.
Executive director Borislav Popov outlined the procedure for electing a new president, indicating that a follow-up meeting on December 6 would set the agenda, place, and date for an upcoming Congress. The Congress, expected to convene next year, will mark a significant transition for the BFU.
The resignation follows a parliamentary summons last week, as Mihailov was questioned by the Committee on Youth and Sports regarding the events surrounding the protest against the football union on November 16.Â
The protest occurred before the European qualification match with Hungary and happened behind closed doors.
The legitimacy of the Congress remains a point of contention, as the old Executive Committee is still officially listed in the Commercial Register. The uncertainty adds an additional layer of complexity to the impending leadership transition within the BFU.
Amidst the developments, Hristo Krusharski, owner of “Lokomotiv Plovdiv,” has publicly declared his intention to vie for the position of BFU president. His candidacy injects a new element into the unfolding narrative of change within Bulgarian football’s governing body.
As the Executive Committee meeting unfolded today, the “Boyana” National Football Base experienced an increased police presence, underscoring the heightened tensions surrounding the leadership reshuffle.Â
The decisions made in the coming days and weeks are poised to shape the future trajectory of Bulgarian football, with stakeholders anxiously awaiting the outcomes of the upcoming Congress.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members