Sad News – Galia Puhaleva Has Passed Away

22 May 2025

With deep sorrow, Balkan Athletics informs the athletics community that Galia Puhaleva, long-serving Secretary General of Balkan Athletics, passed away on May 21, 2025, at the age of 50, after a long and difficult battle with a serious illness.

For more than a decade (2010–2022), Galia Puhaleva served as Secretary General of Balkan Athletics during a time of significant growth, when the organization expanded to 22 member federations. Through her expertise, dedication, and exceptional organizational skills, she made an immeasurable contribution to the development of Balkan Athletics and played a key role in strengthening regional cooperation.

She also served as Head of the International Department of the Bulgarian Athletic Federation, and later as its CEO, where she continuously supported athletes, coaches, and clubs with unwavering commitment.

Galia devoted more than 20 years of her life to athletics, leaving a lasting impact not only in the Balkans but also at the European and global levels. She carried out tasks for European Athletics with outstanding precision and was a respected and sought-after collaborator within World Athletics.

Balkan Athletics extends its deepest condolences to her family, colleagues, and friends. Galia Puhaleva will be remembered as an exceptional professional, a true friend, and one of the pillars of modern Balkan athletics.