Minister Peshev Dismisses Toto Executive Director After Draw Error

Minister Peshev Dismisses Toto Executive Director After Draw Error

Bulgaria

Youth and Sports Minister Ivan Peshev has dismissed Georgi Tarlekov as Executive Director and Management Board member of the Bulgarian Sports Totalizator (Toto) following a draw error. The mistake occurred during the "Second Lotto Chance - 5 out of 35" game on Sunday, when the last drawn number was 41, despite the format limiting numbers to 35, CE Report quotes BTA

Peshev ordered an investigation into the incident and vowed to remove all responsible individuals. Traditionally, draw commissions included both Totalizator and National Revenue Agency (NRA) representatives, but recent draws have only featured Totalizator staff, raising concerns over transparency.

The Interior Ministry is investigating the case, while the NRA and Public Financial Inspection Agency will also conduct probes. Peshev has been in continuous contact with Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov and Deputy Prime Minister Atanas Zafirov.

The Totalizator’s machine operator has reportedly offered to resign, and the company is undergoing an internal review. Peshev’s actions reflect his commitment to ensuring fairness and transparency in lottery games.

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