Bulgarian Weightlifting Federation unblocks leadership transition

The blockade of the Bulgarian Weightlifting Federation (BFTF) has ended following the withdrawal of the final legal challenge by the Hristo Bachvarov club from Sliven. This decision allows the new leadership, headed by 1980 Olympic champion Asen Zlatev, to officially assume office.

The legal dispute began after Zlatev was elected president on December 15, 2025. Three clubs—Hristo Bachvarov, Apollon, and CSKA—filed complaints with the Sofia City Court, effectively halting the federation's activities. While the latter two had previously withdrawn their claims, the Hristo Bachvarov club was the last to contest the election results.

With the legal hurdles removed, the BFTF is expected to resume normal operations and secure necessary funding from the Ministry of Youth and Sport. This resolution comes two weeks before the World Weightlifting Championships in Ningbo, China.