Sofia training conditions for athletes described as tragic by athletics federation head

Georgi Pavlov, President of the Bulgarian Athletics Federation, has criticized the lack of adequate training facilities in Sofia, describing the situation as “tragic” and “shameful” for a European capital.

Pavlov noted that while several tracks previously existed at venues such as Narodna Armiya, Slavia, Lokomotiv, Akademik, Septemvri, and the University of Physical Education and Sports (NSA), many are no longer available for athletic training. Currently, athletes are largely restricted to the track at the Vasil Levski National Stadium, but access is frequently blocked by football matches and concerts, such as a recent Iron Maiden performance.

The Federation has conducted an assessment of 136 clubs across the country to map training conditions. Pavlov indicated that a major press conference is planned for October to present a comprehensive map of athletics infrastructure in Bulgaria. He is currently exploring various sites and engaging with regional governors, ministers, and mayors to find solutions for the lack of 24/7 training access.