[REVISION HISTORY]

Bulgarian youth football referee assault

1 recorded revision of this situation.

What changed

2026-10-14 12:03 UTC → 2026-10-17 13:08 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Following a U18 Elite Group match between Lokomotiv Gorna Oryahovitsa and National Sofia, goalkeeper Aleksandar Stoyanov was suspended for two years by the Bulgarian Football Union (BFU) for a violent assault on referee Vladimir Velev. Video footage captured Stoyanov attacking the referee from behind with martial arts-style movements, including a kick to the head. The BFU Disciplinary Commission also sanctioned the Lokomotiv coaching staff, including a fine and a two-match bench ban for an assistant coach, while two other players received two-match bans. The Association of Football Referees in Bulgaria (AFRB) condemned the brutality, describing the behavior as “incompatible with any sports field or hall.” Beyond sporting sanctions, the incident has entered a legal phase. Bulgarian police and the Veliko Tarnovo District Prosecutor's Office are investigating the minor for hooliganism and bodily harm. ~~Potential legal consequences may include community service, mandatory apologies, or participation in aggression~~ In response to the incident, the Bulgarian Football Union (BFS) and the Ministry of Interior organized a session for approximately 250 young footballers from the Lokomotiv Gorna Oryahovitsa youth academy. The initiative focused on respect, discipline, and the prevention ~~programs.~~ of aggression. During the meeting, BFS officials Kamen Aleksiev and Georgi Bizhev emphasized club responsibility and teamwork. Additionally, referee and psychologist Georgi Davidov led discussions on managing anger and impulsive reactions, teaching players de-escalation techniques such as the “stop – step back – seek support” method to handle controversial officiating.

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