Spartak Varna Appeal to Bulgarian Government and FA for Help Over Tax Debt

Spartak Varna have issued a public appeal to Bulgaria’s Minister of Finance, Temenuzhka Petkova, and GERB party leader Boyko Borissov – who also serves as president of the Bulgarian Football Union (BFU) – seeking urgent assistance to settle the club’s outstanding tax debts and preserve their professional licence.

The club’s participation in the efbet Liga, Bulgaria’s top football division, is under serious threat due to unpaid debts owed to the National Revenue Agency (NRA). Just over a week ago, the BFU warned Spartak Varna, along with second-tier side Pirin Blagoevgrad, that their licences were at risk. A deadline of 21 October was set for both clubs to demonstrate that their debts had been rescheduled, or face the prospect of losing their professional status.

In response, Spartak’s management launched a donation campaign with the goal of raising BGN 1 million (€500,000). The initiative has drawn support from numerous former players, coaches, club legends, and local business figures. Despite these efforts, the club has so far raised only BGN 300,000 (€150,000).

Spartak are also awaiting the release of financial support pledged by the Varna Municipality to help clear their debts.

In an official club statement, Spartak Varna said:

“Today, we submitted all the documents required by the BFU licensing committee. We thank once again all the supporters, football people, and figures from across the country who joined the campaign, through which we have raised over BGN 300,000 so far.

The campaign continues in full swing, and we remain motivated to collect the entire sum of BGN 1,000,000. We expect the decision of the BFU licensing committee within days.”

The club further explained that one of the biggest obstacles remains the outstanding debt to the NRA, for which funds have already been approved by the Varna Municipal Council. However, the money has yet to reach the club.

“Although the funds were voted a month ago, they have not reached the club because the acting mayor has sent an inquiry to the Ministry of Finance and refuses to execute the payment until a statement is received from them.

Thus, for a month, we have been in a situation where a decision has been made, but not executed. This is why we are now appealing to Mrs Temenuzhka Petkova and Mr Boyko Borissov, as the leader of the party to which the Minister of Finance belongs, to intervene and assist with our case.”

Spartak Varna highlighted their 107-year history, strong traditions, and loyal fanbase, who have been contributing towards the debt repayment, as evidence of their determination to remain in the efbet Liga.

“We sincerely believe that the political will can be found to help our club receive the support approved by the Varna Municipal Council as soon as possible, thereby saving its licence. Sports clubs should not become victims of political motives!” the statement concluded.