Georgi Velinov, a Bulgarian footballer and manager, died on March 1, 2026.
Nicknamed Johnny, he was a goalkeeper who was named Bulgarian Footballer of the Year in 1981. Velinov played for Dunav Ruse, Cherno More and CSKA Sofia, where he spent much of his career from 1978 to 1987.
With CSKA, he won five A PFG titles and four Bulgarian Cups. He later played in Portugal for Braga, Atlético CP and O Elvas, and also had spells with Slavia Sofia, PFC Sliven and Botev Novi Pazar. His career included 338 A PFG matches and 33 senior appearances for Bulgaria.
Georgi Velinov Velinov (Bulgarian: Георги Велинов Велинов; 5 October 1957 – 1 March 2026), nicknamed Johnny, was a Bulgarian professional football player and manager. A goalkeeper, he was elected Bulgarian Footballer of the Year in 1981.