Stiliyan Petrov Breaks Silence on Son’s Political Candidacy: “He’s His Own Man”
When the name Stiliyan Petrov appeared last week on the Reform UK Party’s list of parliamentary candidates, eyebrows were raised — especially among football fans in Scotland and England. For many, the name is instantly recognisable: Stiliyan Petrov, the Bulgarian midfield dynamo who became a fan favourite during his storied career at Celtic and later at Aston Villa, is a beloved figure in British football. So the idea of that Stiliyan Petrov standing for a hard-right political party founded by Nigel Farage was not only surprising, but for some, deeply disappointing.
However, it didn’t take long for the truth to emerge. The Reform UK candidate for the Lapworth and West Kenilworth constituency is not the former footballer himself, but rather his 22-year-old son — also named Stiliyan. The confusion was understandable, but the backlash was swift. Given Reform UK’s populist, anti-immigration stance and its alignment with right-wing ideals, many Celtic supporters — who traditionally hold strong progressive and socially conscious values — were quick to voice their disapproval.
The situation prompted a rare public statement from Petrov Sr., who, despite generally staying away from public controversies since retiring from football, felt compelled to set the record straight. What followed was a calm, considered, and heartfelt reflection — not just on the situation, but on the broader themes of fatherhood, personal freedom, and the ever-complicated interplay between public legacy and private life.
“First of all, I’ve never been into politics, and I never will be,” he said in a statement. “My son is passionate about the world, and I’ve strongly encouraged that.”
His words struck a note of quiet resolve. Petrov Sr. made it unmistakably clear that his own name, reputation, and values should not be conflated with those of his son. He is not entering politics, he has no affiliations or ambitions in that arena, and he remains — in his own words — “miles away from politics.”
But perhaps more noteworthy than his personal distancing was his decision to defend his son’s right to choose his own path. “Even though we haven’t agreed in certain cases, he’s his own man. He’s an independent, young man who works hard, he’s happy to help the community, and he draws his own path in life,” he explained.
It’s a delicate balance that many parents can relate to — especially those in the public eye. There is pride in seeing a child take initiative, get involved, and attempt to make a difference. But when the path they take is politically divisive or ideologically misaligned with family or public expectations, that pride can be complicated by concern, confusion, or criticism.
Still, Petrov Sr.’s message was one of respect and quiet dignity. In an age where public figures are often expected to speak in absolutes — to disavow, endorse, or denounce — Petrov offered something more human: a father’s respect for his son’s right to make his own decisions, even if he disagrees with some of them.
That choice may not sit well with some supporters. Celtic, after all, is more than a football club to many. With deep roots in Irish immigrant identity, the club has long been associated with social justice, anti-establishment politics, and left-leaning causes. The sight of any member of the Petrov family aligning with a political movement like Reform UK — even tangentially — is bound to provoke an emotional response.
But Stiliyan Petrov Sr.’s response invites reflection rather than division. He neither endorsed his son’s politics nor apologised for them. He simply affirmed his belief in a young man’s right to explore the world, take part in public life, and form his own convictions.
“With young kids now, they have their own choices,” he said. “But I’m miles away from politics. I don’t have an interest whatsoever, that’s all I can say.”
In a way, Petrov Sr.’s stance embodies a quiet form of leadership — not the kind that delivers speeches or signs legislation, but the kind that respects autonomy while upholding personal integrity. It’s the leadership of a father who understands that every generation will ask its own questions and seek its own answers.
And for fans who may feel disoriented or disappointed by the headlines, perhaps this is also a reminder that public figures, no matter how beloved, are ultimately human — and so are their families. Children grow into adults with their own ideas, their own ideals, and yes, sometimes their own politics.
As for Stiliyan Petrov Jr., his candidacy will be judged by the electorate. His platform, his views, and his vision for the future will stand on their own merit — or fall by the same measure. And whatever comes of that, his father’s message remains clear: I’m not involved, but I support his right to try.
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