Spartak Varna requests new referee for CSKA Sofia match

Spartak Varna has issued a formal declaration requesting a change of the head referee for their upcoming Bulgarian First League match against CSKA Sofia, scheduled for Saturday, September 5.

The club expressed serious concerns regarding the appointment of Radoslav Gidzhenov. Management cited a previous derby against Cherno More on February 7, 2026, officiated by Gidzhenov, which was marked by controversial decisions including an early red card for a Spartak player and a disallowed goal following a VAR review.

While the club stated they do not question Gidzhenov’s professional qualities, they argued that his appointment for a high-stakes match could increase tension and undermine public trust. Spartak Varna has appealed to the Bulgarian Football Union’s Referee Commission to reconsider the appointment and select a neutral official to ensure fairness and maintain a positive atmosphere for football fans.