site.btaBulgaria Bids to Host European Indoor Athletics Championships, European Throwing Cup

Bulgaria has officially entered the race to host two of Europe’s most prestigious athletics events, submitting bids for the European Indoor Athletics Championships in Burgas in 2031 and for the European Throwing Cup in Balchik in 2028, 2029, and 2030. The candidacies were formally accepted by the Board of European Athletics at a meeting in Paris, the Bulgarian Athletics Federation (BAF) announced Friday.

The bid for Burgas, backed by both the federation and the local municipality, targets the continent’s second-largest athletics event after the outdoor European Championships. The host city for the 40th European Indoor Championships will be chosen in autumn next year, and if Burgas is selected, the competition would be staged at Arena Burgas. Mayor Dimitar Nikolov said the city has the necessary experience and modern infrastructure to host an event of this scale and to deliver a memorable experience for athletes and fans alike.

Balchik has applied to host the European Throwing Cup for three consecutive seasons, in line with European Athletics regulations. The Black Sea town boasts a specialized throwing facility that meets top-level standards and has a proven track record in organizing national championships and international competitions. If approved, Balchik would welcome around 350 athletes competing in javelin, discus, shot put, and hammer events, according to Mayor Nikolay Angelov, who noted that the city’s extensive sports infrastructure, quality accommodation, and proximity to an airport significantly strengthen its bid.

Bulgarian Athletics Federation President Georgi Pavlov said the applications reflect a long-term strategy to secure Bulgaria’s stable presence on the European athletics calendar. He expressed confidence that the country has both the expertise and the facilities required to establish itself as a trusted and respected host of major international athletics events.