Georgi Ivanov defends Bulgarian player rule and compensation decision for Ludogorets

Georgi Ivanov, president of the Bulgarian Football Union, outlined the federation’s strategy to develop Bulgarian football, including a rule that clubs must either field a set number of Bulgarian players or pay a compensatory fee. The aim is to give more playing time to local talent and improve the national team’s quality.

Ivanov addressed the controversy surrounding Ludogorets Razgrad’s decision not to pay the compensation for not using four Bulgarian players. He explained that clubs may choose to pay the fee, but the federation expects them to invest in local talent. He also clarified that because Ludogorets qualified for the UEFA Europa League group stage, it lost eligibility for the UEFA solidarity payments that other clubs receive, a sum roughly equal to the compensation fee. Requiring an additional payment would therefore double‑charge the club. The policy is intended to keep the funds within the system and support the development of Bulgarian football overall.