Bulgarian Sports Minister identifies critical state facility conditions

Bulgarian Minister of Youth and Sports Encho Keryazov has identified the condition of several state sports facilities as serious. Key sites requiring attention include the Belmeken high-mountain base, the ‘Cherveno Zname’ complex, the Winter Castle in Sofia, and ‘Sport Palace’ in Varna.

Keryazov stated that a major renovation plan for national sports facilities is being prepared, with expectations to launch significant repairs next year. He noted that while discussions regarding a new national stadium have persisted for years, there are currently no immediate projects for its realization.

The Minister also addressed management crises within various sports federations, including wrestling, weightlifting, and chess. He emphasized the need for the state to act as a mediator without interfering in the internal organization of federations, citing political involvement as a historical cause of conflict. Despite these tensions, the ministry has secured funding for athletes to participate in international competitions, such as the chess olympiad.

Additionally, Keryazov criticized the educational system for underestimating physical education, noting that the current school curriculum often fails to convey the importance of sports to children.