Bulgarian teen wins $75,000 award for math theorem

Nikola Veselinov, an 18-year-old student at Sofia High School of Mathematics, won the $75,000 Regeneron Young Scientist Award at the 2026 Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF).

His new mathematical theorem explains when certain equations cannot be solved using basic mathematical functions by combining topology, symmetry, and Galois theory.

His research stood out among more than 1,700 finalists at ISEF, highlighting the importance of pure mathematics in advancing scientific understanding.