Militsa Mircheva is a well-known name in the world of long-distance running. She is the first Bulgarian woman to participate in an Olympic marathon, a multiple-time Bulgarian champion, and holder of national records over several distances. In 2021, she ran the Wizz Air Sofia Marathon course in the classic marathon with the impressive time of 2:35:03, finishing just one second behind Bulgaria’s national record at the time. Only a few months later, she managed to improve it by more than five minutes.

Today, Militsa steps into a new role – Sports Director of the Sofia Marathon, a position she embraces with the energy, experience, and passion that we know from the running tracks. She will be responsible for the professional face of the event, improving the courses, attracting international athletes, and creating new opportunities for Bulgarian runners.
And despite her new position, many are wondering – will we see Militsa at the start of the 42 km this autumn again? Or will her focus be entirely on the organization? We reached out to her for a brief interview to find out what inspires her, what she’s planning, and how she envisions the future of the Sofia Marathon.

Militsa, this year you are in a new role – Sports Director of the Wizz Air Sofia Marathon. What does this mean to you?
– This is an extremely responsible role that I wholeheartedly embrace. I have always loved this marathon in particular because it was my first full marathon and largely shaped my path as an athlete. In 2021, after a five-year break from the distance, I returned to where it all started and finished just one second off the then-national record and meters from the victory I lost in the last two kilometers. For one reason or another, this event has remained fateful for me. I believe there is a special reason I keep coming back here, and the greatest pleasure is to run on home soil among the Bulgarian crowd. This year, I’ll be on the other side, trying to give back to the Sofia Marathon what it has given me.

What are the main things you would like to improve or develop as part of the team?
– As an athlete who is often on the other side, I believe I have the experience and know what is necessary to make such a day a real celebration for the participants. I am someone who values feedback tremendously, and this year we are very focused on this direction. I want to hear what runners like and what we need to work on and build upon. This year, there are quite a few changes we are integrating with the team. We chose to work with a Bulgarian brand for the medals, which I believe will optimize our work significantly and solve one of last year’s issues. We also have new collaborations with established brands. The aid stations will also be considerably upgraded compared to previous years in many respects, including toilets at each station. We are working towards creating more atmosphere and music along the course because runners really appreciate that. We will also offer a better starter pack across the different distances. We have many more exciting things planned, which we will be able to share soon.

Should we expect to see you running the 42 km this autumn?
– I will not participate in this year’s edition because I have a more important mission: to make this day a celebration for everyone else who wants to explore Sofia by running and to set a good example for all the people who wish to be active but haven’t yet taken the first step.

In your view, what makes a marathon truly great from an athlete’s perspective?
– Good organization; the atmosphere and energy on race day; the support of the spectators and, of course, the friendly volunteers!

Which moment from the Wizz Air Sofia Marathon is the most emotional for you as a competitor?
– Probably 2021, when I ran my strongest marathon ever, and it was on home soil. Even though the weather was bad – rainy and windy – I felt incredible support from every part of the course: the participants, the spectators, the volunteers, and the organizers. It was an emotional day precisely because of the love and support I received. I had promised myself that one day I would come back and really break the Bulgarian record right here. But life turned things a little differently and now gives me the chance to give back what I owe in an even more special way.

What would you say to someone who is still wondering whether to sign up for their first distance?
– Running is a wonderful and easily accessible sport. I think everyone can find something in it if they give it a try. I often meet enthusiasts who work a lot, have families, and thousands of commitments, but still find time to stay active and set a great example for everyone else. I see these people as heroes because they show that despite the challenges of everyday life, it is possible to find time for movement and sport. And our nation and the younger generation truly need more movement. The truth is that sport not only helps us look better, but actually makes us much more resilient mentally. So I invite everyone who wants to do something good for themselves and set a good example for those who haven’t yet found the courage to join us at the start line of the Sofia Marathon.

Wizz Air Sofia Marathon 2025 will take place over two consecutive days – October 11 and 12. The marathon is expected to become the biggest running event in Sofia this year, bringing together thousands of participants, spectators, and sports enthusiasts. On October 11, the FIB Mass Run will be held – the 5-kilometer fun run that traditionally gathers enthusiasts of all ages, families, and beginner runners. On October 12, the classic races will take place: the Garmin Run (10 km), the half marathon (21 km), and the classic marathon (42.195 km).