Botev Plovdiv president killed in shooting

Botev Plovdiv president and majority shareholder Iliyan Filipov was killed in a shooting in the Bulgarian city of Plovdiv, sending shockwaves through the country’s football community.

Police said they received a report of a shooting at an address in Plovdiv at around 1 a.m. Officers who arrived at the scene found the 53-year-old Filipov dead. Initial information indicated that he had been shot in the head.

Police investigation launched

Authorities have launched a wide-ranging investigation into the killing. Investigators are working to establish the motive and identify the person or people responsible for the attack.

Security measures were put in place around the area as police began gathering evidence and examining the circumstances surrounding the shooting.

Role in Botev Plovdiv

Filipov was among the founders of PIMK, one of Bulgaria’s major transport and logistics companies, and became a prominent figure at Botev Plovdiv.

He played a key role in helping the club overcome financial difficulties in the summer of 2025 and was also closely involved in the reconstruction of the Hristo Botev Stadium.

Club mourns president

Botev Plovdiv expressed deep sorrow following Filipov’s death and said his contribution to the history of the club would not be forgotten.

The club’s management, players and employees extended their condolences to Filipov’s family and relatives as the investigation into his killing continued.