Botev Plovdiv owner Ilijan Filipov shot dead in Plovdiv
Filipov was fatally shot at his home in Plovdiv on 30.09.2026; police say he suffered a single gunshot wound to the head.
Ilijan Filipov, the businessman who owned Bulgarian top‑flight club Botev Plovdiv, was shot dead overnight at his home in Plovdiv, authorities said. The incident took place on 30.09.2026 and was later confirmed by the Ministry of Interior.
The report of the shooting was received at around 1:00 a.m., and police and investigative teams arrived at the scene. Initial information indicates Filipov was struck by a single bullet to the head.
Filipov was known as the founder and owner of the transport company PIMK and had been directly involved with Botev Plovdiv in recent years. He took ownership of the club in June 2025 and announced he would assume responsibilities linked to the previous management's large debts.
His name had also been connected to plans for the construction of Hristo Botev Stadium. According to reports, only a few hours before the shooting Filipov attended the match at Hristo Botev Stadium where Bulgaria and Estonia played in the Nations League; the game finished 0-0.
Police have not released further operational details while the investigation continues. The football community in Bulgaria and beyond reacted with shock to the news as inquiries into motive and perpetrators proceed.
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Photo: press material from the event
