Hristo Markov: They buried the athletics!”/>Hristo Markov adn Teresa Marinova Demand Transparency in Bulgarian Athletics Federation
Calls for reform escalate within Bulgarian athletics, citing arbitrary rule changes and lack of clear criteria for national team selection.
Sofia, Bulgaria – Former Bulgarian athletics star Hristo Markov has publicly lamented the state of the sport in Bulgaria, while Teresa Marinova, representing concerned clubs, is leading efforts to overhaul the Bulgarian Athletics Federation (BAF). The concerns center around perceived inconsistencies in regulations governing championship participation and national team selection, leading to accusations of arbitrariness.
Marinova, speaking to Darik Radio, emphasized the need for “clear, strict, accurate rules” regarding qualification standards. She highlighted the frustration of athletes facing shifting criteria, stating, “I want to know that my competitor is jumping six meters, it is secured for him… jumping eight, instantly this thing changes. This does not change, it is indeed written and uploaded to the Federation website, and that this cannot be changed.” She specifically called for publicly available and immutable standards to ensure fairness.
The movement is pushing for a more democratic BAF structure. Marinova stated a desire for a unifying figure and a transparent voting process, advocating for a change to the BAF Statute allowing the General Assembly to directly elect the President.She acknowledged the time constraints but expressed determination to pursue this reform.
Marinova pledged to actively monitor the BAF for irregularities and publicly report any concerns. She framed this as a proactive measure to encourage accountability,suggesting that increased scrutiny would compel the federation to operate with greater integrity. “We do not stand with our hands,” she asserted.
Currently, a petition is underway to convene a new General Assembly meeting. Two formal complaints have been filed,and two lawsuits have been initiated,with a ruling expected from the Sofia City Court. Marinova concluded by reiterating the commitment to fight for justice and the future of Bulgarian athletics, viewing the cause as a personal mission and appealing to other clubs to join the effort. the BAF, led by President Galen Nikolov, has not yet publicly responded to thes specific allegations as of November 21, 2023.
