In brief
Bulgaria’s world weightlifting champion Karlos Nasar flew into Sofia on Saturday after winning his fourth world title in Ningbo, where he broke every 95‑kg world record. The 28‑year‑old, who dedicated his victory to his late coach and Bulgaria, was rapturously received by fans, officials and his family. Nasar vows to compete in Bundesliga events before heading to a World Cup in Qatar.
Karlos Nasar touched down at Sofia’s Vasil Levski Airport on Saturday after clinching his fourth world title at the IWF World Weightlifting Championships in Ningbo, China, on November 4.
In the men’s 95‑kg category Nasar shattered all three world records, lifting 185 kg in the snatch and 230 kg in the clean‑and‑jerk for a total of 415 kg.
He was welcomed by family, friends, fans, Youth and Sports Minister Encho Keryazov and Bulgarian Weightlifting Federation President Asen Zlatev.
“I am very happy and feel the support of the people. Sport brings people together. I have always understood the role of sport in society, but now I also feel my own role and am very proud. I realize the responsibility that comes with being the ‘Champion of the People’ and hope to represent Bulgaria with dignity and bring joy and strength to people,” Nasar said upon his return.
The champion highlighted the renewed competition from Iran’s Ali Alipour and Kazakhstan’s Nurgissa Adiletuly, saying they pushed him to prove Bulgaria’s place at the top.
He also spoke of overcoming health setbacks leading up to the championships, crediting character and willpower for his recovery.
Nasars victory is dedicated to the nation and to his late coach Iliyan Iliev.
He indicated plans to compete in two Bundesliga events in November before taking part in the World Cup in Qatar in December. The champion added a long‑term goal to win four Olympic medals.
The Youth and Sports Minister congratulated Nasar, calling the achievement a major milestone for Bulgarian sport.
