Former captain of the national volleyball team, Vladimir Nikolov, made his first public political appearance by participating in BNT's morning show, where he outlined his motives for joining the "Progressive Bulgaria" Coalition and his vision for the role of sports in the country's governance.
Right from the start, Nikolov reacted sharply to criticism of the presence of athletes on political lists. He defended his colleagues, emphasizing that these are people who have dedicated their lives to Bulgaria and have built their authority through hard work and results. According to him, underestimating individuals like Petar Stoychev, Yordan Yovchev, and Vesela Lecheva is not just inappropriate but shows a lack of understanding of the value of sports.
His entry into politics is not an impulsive decision but a result of conversations with President Rumen Radev, which proved crucial. Nikolov points out that it was trust and the idea of 'everyone doing what they are strongest at' that convinced him to join the project. For him, politics is not a territory for division, but a field for work – especially in conditions of prolonged institutional instability.
'We have a choice – either to keep saying that everyone is corrupt, or to get the job done,' Nikolov stated, emphasizing that he does not feel politically used; on the contrary, he sees an opportunity to apply his experience.
Regarding ideology, he defines himself as a person with right-wing convictions but insists that in the current situation, Bulgaria cannot afford the classic left-right division. Stability and a clear vision for governance focused on citizens should be the priority. He holds a similar position on geopolitical matters – according to him, Bulgaria should be an active participant in Europe, not a passive executor of foreign decisions.
Nikolov is adamant that compromises are an inevitable part of politics, but there is a clear boundary – principles. He referred to a thought attributed to Dwight Eisenhower that 'rules are not sacred, principles are,' emphasizing that he will not make concessions that contradict his personal convictions.
Special attention in the conversation was given to sports – the field in which Nikolov claims the greatest expertise. He sees a systemic problem in the development of Bulgarian talents, who often get lost on their way to professional sports. Among the key solutions he proposes is a significant increase in the remuneration and status of coaches.
'It is not normal for someone who works daily with our children to receive less than a cleaner,' Nikolov emphasized, defining the coaching profession as fundamental for the future of sports.
He also highlighted the role of federations, citing examples of successful models such as volleyball and rhythmic gymnastics. According to him, the state should not interfere directly in their work but should stimulate development through good practices, training, and dialogue.
Politically, Nikolov is preparing for a serious battle, especially in Plovdiv, where the competition is strong. Nevertheless, he approaches it with the self-confidence of someone accustomed to the pressure of big matches, but also with a clear awareness of the risks of underestimating the opponent.
The ambition of the coalition he is part of is categorical – 125 parliamentary seats, which he believes is a way to initiate an exit from the political crisis.
On a personal level, his decision is supported by his family – a factor he defines as key. 'If I don't have the support of my family, how can I expect support from the people?' Nikolov commented.
With this move, the former volleyball player clearly states that he is not entering politics as a one-time participant, but as someone ready for a 'long match' – with a focus on real results, especially in the field of sports, where he sees the greatest potential for rapid and visible change.
