Rilski Sportist

FC Rilski Sportist (ФК Рилски спортист Самоков) is a Bulgarian football club from the town of Samokov founded in 1947 and currently playing in the South-West Third League. Their home stadium is Iskar Stadium.

Throughout the majority of its history, Rilski Sportist has competed in the lower levels of Bulgarian football, usually the second, or third tiers. In 2002, however, the team managed to promote to the A Group for the first time. Their inexperience led to an immediate relegation. Three years later, Rilski Sportist returned to the A Group, only to be relegated again. Since then, the club has been competing mostly in the amateur levels of Bulgarian football.

The club's nickname is the ‘Skiers’, which originates from the fact that the town of Samokov and nearby Borovets are major resorts for winter sports in Bulgaria.

Rilski Sportist is a prominent soccer team based in the picturesque town of Samokov, Bulgaria. Founded in 1921, the club has a rich history and a strong connection to the local community, embodying the spirit and passion of Bulgarian football. The team's colors, traditionally red and white, symbolize their fierce determination and pride on the field.

Rilski Sportist competes in the Bulgarian lower leagues, where they have built a reputation for nurturing young talent and promoting a strong team ethos. The club's home matches are held at the Samokov Stadium, a venue that resonates with the cheers of dedicated fans who support their team through thick and thin.

Over the years, Rilski Sportist has produced several notable players who have gone on to achieve success in both domestic and international football. The team's commitment to developing local talent is evident in their youth academy, which focuses on instilling essential skills and values in aspiring athletes.

With a focus on teamwork, resilience, and community engagement, Rilski Sportist continues to strive for excellence on the pitch, aiming to rise through the ranks of Bulgarian football and make a mark in the hearts of fans across the nation. Whether in local derbies or cup competitions, Rilski Sportist remains a symbol of pride for the town of Samokov and a testament to the enduring love for the beautiful game in Bulgaria.