The son of Celtic hero Stiliyan Petrov has been announced as a Westminster candidate for Reform UK.
Petrov Jnr - who bears the same name as his famous dad - will work for Nigel Farage's political party and run as a candidate for Lapworth and West Kenilworth at the next election.
Reform UK made the announcement on X, saying: "Meet Stiliyan Petrov, our candidate for Lapworth & West Kenilworth.
"He’s ready to fix his local area by cutting wasteful spending, lowering council tax and ensuring proper funding for key public services."
Meet Stiliyan Petrov, our candidate for Lapworth & West Kenilworth. He’s ready to fix his local area by cutting wasteful spending, lowering council tax and ensuring proper funding for key public services. pic.twitter.com/9htnJiabOW
— Reform UK (@reformparty_uk) April 9, 2025
Petrov Snr is widely regarded as a cult hero at Celtic Park.
The Bulgarian scored 64 goals during his 228 appearances for the Scottish Premiership side.
He joined from CSKA Sofia in 1999, before leaving for Aston Villa in 2006. He lifted 10 major trophies for the Hoops.
Now, his son has explained his reasons for running as part of Reform.
"I've decided to stand for election because I think it's time the working class people and the youth of this country have a voice that will actually represent them," he said. "We all start somewhere. When I started my electrical apprenticeship I didn't have any idea what I was doing.
"I couldn't tell you even how to wire up a light - but as time goes on you gain that experience and it's not going to be an easy journey, it will be hard. But you have to think on your feet, you have to do what's best in that situation - and I think that's what's really going to benefit me.
"I'm not looking to become a career politician. I'm looking to help the people of this area and hopefully the country one day and just create real change in this country.
Read more:
-
Celtic vs Kilmarnock: TV channel, live stream & kick-off time
-
Former goalkeeping target 'gaining interest' from Celtic ahead of transfer window
"Look around, this Labour government and the previous Conservative government have constantly been lying to us. False promises and making us wait. Well I've had enough.
"It's time for me to step up to the challenge and to make a real change that matters. I believe in common-sense politics.
"I believe we should have lower taxes, safer streets and infrastructure that actually benefits everyone - as opposed to having potholes everywhere on the road and getting punctures.
"We need to end this wasteful spending on a national level and a local level. Reform UK stands for practical people like me and wants change, and will ensure change. I am Stiliyan Petrov. I am Reform UK."
