ISF Delegation Strengthens School Sport Ties in Bulgaria
Sep. 18, Sofia, Bulgaria – An ISF delegation led by President Željko Tanasković and Executive Director Hasnae El Ayoubi visited Sofia, Bulgaria, to strengthen cooperation in the field of school sport and explore future opportunities for hosting ISF events.
During the visit, the ISF leaders met with Minister of Youth and Sport Ivan Peshev, Deputy Minister Assoc. Prof. Stoyan Andonov, PhD, and senior officials including Svetla Georgieva, Director of the “Sport for All and Sport for Students” Directorate, and Nadezhda Pehlivanova, Chief Expert at the Ministry. Discussions focused on Bulgaria’s experience in school sport, opportunities to align with ISF’s global agenda, and the possibility of hosting an ISF event in 2027.
President Željko Tanasković praised Bulgaria’s strong traditions and capacity: “Bulgaria has all the prerequisites to be part of the future of world school sport — traditions, expertise, and ambition.”
Deputy Minister Andonov underlined that ISF’s visit was a sign of trust and recognition, adding: “We want more Bulgarian students to engage in sports, to participate in international competitions, and to feel that sport opens doors to the world.”
At the Vasil Levski National Sports Academy, the delegation was welcomed by Rector Prof. Krasimir Petkov, Doctor of Science, Deputy Rector Assoc. Prof. Hristo Andonov, PhD, Director of Administrative and Sports Activities Mr. Valentin Dobrev, and Deans from the Faculties of Sports and Pedagogy. The exchange highlighted the importance of linking academic expertise with international practice in school sport.
Throughout the mission, the delegation was accompanied by Mrs. Mariana Borukova, Chair of the Bulgarian Association of Sport for Students (BASS), an ISF member federation that plays a key role in promoting school sport in Bulgaria.
The ISF visit reaffirmed Bulgaria’s active role in the international school sport movement and reflected a shared commitment to using sport as a platform for education, cultural exchange, and future development.
