This archive report was first published on 18 October 2019.
On September 7, 2019, England's black players were subjected to racist abuse by Bulgarian fans during a Euro 2020 qualifier at the Vasil Levski National Stadium in Sofia.
The incident prompted widespread condemnation, and four days later, Bulgaria coach Krasimir Balakov stepped down from his role.
According to the Bulgarian Football Union (BFU), Balakov's resignation was due to the team's recent run of unsatisfactory performances, not the racist abuse incident.
However, Balakov disputed this claim, stating, "My decision to step down has nothing to do with Prime Minister (Boyko) Borissov asking for my resignation the day after the game against England. My patience is over," as quoted by Sky Sports.
"We did what we had to do regarding the security during the game against England. Bulgaria is not a racist country," he added.
Following the incident, BFU president Borislav Mihaylov resigned, and police in Bulgaria made 12 arrests.
