Bulgarian Government Throws Weight Behind Euro 2020 Bid

Bulgaria has stepped-up its efforts to host a match at Euro 2020 after the Socialist-led government backed the country’s bid.

The government and Prime Minister Plamen Oresharski confirmed last week that talks had been held with the Bulgarian Football Union (BFU) over the possibility of hosting an event.

Sports Minister Mariana Georgieva has now told reporters: “The state categorically supports the BFU for the bid to host the Euro 2020 (match).

“The prime minister is personally involved in this case. We already had a meeting with (BFU’s president Borislav) Mihaylov. The state is aware that this is a huge challenge but we’re responsible and we’re adamant about our support.”

European football’s governing body UEFA decided to change the format of the Euros in 2020, by allowing the tournament to be held in 13 cities across the continent rather than in one or two countries.

The controversial move means that different cities are bidding to host a match, with UEFA saying that 12 cities would be awarded a set of three group games plus a game from the round of 16 or quarter-finals.

The 13^th package will consist of two semi-finals and the final.

Bulgaria did consider a joint bid with Romania for Euro 2020 before UEFA changed the format to celebrate their 60^th anniversary.

The authorities must now decide whether to build a new stadium or renovate the 43,230 capacity Vasil Levski national stadium (pictured), which at present does not meet UEFA criteria.