site.btaUPDATED Spectators Injured in Varna Car Race Crash Were Standing in a Restricted Area, Organizers Say

The spectators injured during the “Aladzha Monastery” hill climb car race in Varna were standing in an area prohibited for the public, the rally’s sports director Slavi Slavov told reporters near the site of the accident, where a man died and eight were injured earlier on Sunday.

He explained that warning signs and barrier tape had been placed in the area where the incident occurred.

According to Slavov, 45 marshals and 15 municipal police officers were in charge of ensuring safety during the event.

The authorities continue to investigate the case.

Car No. 14, driven by Neyko Neykov, started at 11:07 a.m., and one minute later, a radio signal reported a crash involving the vehicle and injured spectators, said Slavi Slavov, the sports director of the Aladzha Monastery hill climb race.

“I immediately ordered a red flag, which under our rules means the course is closed to all traffic,” Slavov explained. Ambulances were called immediately and transported the injured to hospitals in Varna.

According to Slavov, the spectators were standing behind the crash barrier along the road and most likely reached the area through the forest. The driver lost control on a turn, which, he said, can happen in such races, especially at high speed. “The tire marks show he hit the brakes before crashing into the barrier,” he noted, adding that the driver is in good condition but was severely shaken. Slavov said that all drivers are tested for alcohol before competing, but there is no procedure for drug testing.

Deputy Mayor Iliya Koev said that every possible safety measure had been taken and urged the public to wait for the official investigation results to determine whether the driver’s behavior was appropriate and how spectators entered the restricted area.

Kaloyan Stanchev, President of the Automobile Federation of Bulgaria (AFB), stressed that the safety rules for such events are strictly followed, being based on the organization’s long-standing experience. He described the incident as a racing accident with tragic consequences.

“The AFB has always appealed to spectators to follow the marshals’ and police officers’ instructions to avoid such incidents,” Stanchev added. He assured that if the investigation identifies any aspect that can be improved, the federation will take action. Stanchev emphasized that the course was secured to the highest standard, but that automobile racing always carries risk.