Bulgarian volleyball legend Vladimir Nikolov officially entered politics today after taking the oath as a Member of Parliament in the 52nd National Assembly. The former captain of the national team is part of the 'Progressive Bulgaria' parliamentary group and was elected from Plovdiv.
Upon entering the parliament building, Nikolov maintained a measured tone and shifted the focus from personal assessment to responsibility towards the voters. He commented for bTV's camera:
'Whether I am ready or not, it doesn't matter. The people of Plovdiv sent me here, so I will do my best to defend the national interest and the interests of the people of Plovdiv with the best of my abilities,' Nikolov stated.
The topic of his possible participation in the executive branch was also raised, with his name being mentioned for the post of Minister of Youth and Sports. His answer remained within the framework of institutional logic.
'That is a decision of President Rumen Radev. If I am invited, we will discuss it. Whether the cabinet is ready or not - Rumen Radev can tell you that, I am not the person,' he said.
Nikolov emphasized that although his expertise is in sports, there are other prepared figures on the party's lists:
'There are people with a lot of experience on our lists. Let's give President Radev time, to have a parliament, to be constituted, to elect a speaker and deputy speakers - that is what's important for the day.'
Vladimir Nikolov's entry into the National Assembly is another example of leading figures transitioning from sports to public life. As a long-standing captain of Bulgaria, he was a symbol of leadership and consistency - qualities that will now have to find application in the political environment.

His first words as a Member of Parliament, however, outline a clear line - a focus on commitment to voters, rather than on personal assessment of readiness.

Meanwhile, it became clear that Nikolov has been elected deputy chairman of the parliamentary group, which explains his seat in the front row of the National Assembly. Petar Vitanov will be the chairman of the party's parliamentary group.

photos:volleyweek.bg