The Georgian government has nominated football star Khvicha Kvaratskhelia for the Order of Victory of Saint George, the country’s highest state honor, following his landmark UEFA Champions League triumph.
At today’s government session, GD Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze congratulated Kvaratskhelia and highlighted the national pride his victory has brought.
“Khvicha’s Champions League win is a moment of immense pride for our nation. It’s a shared victory for every Georgian fan,” said Kobakhidze. “We not only celebrate this achievement but thank him for elevating Georgia on the world stage. I’m confident this is just the beginning of many more milestones in his career.”
Kobakhidze emphasized that exceptional athletic achievements deserve the state’s highest recognition. He recalled that Kvaratskhelia had been awarded the Order of Honor last year for his contribution to the national team, and that this new accolade is well deserved.
“After consulting with the President and Speaker of Parliament, we unanimously agreed to nominate him for the Order of Victory of Saint George. The President will present the award,” he added.
Kvaratskhelia, who plays for Paris Saint-Germain, made history as the first Georgian footballer to score in a Champions League final, contributing to PSG’s stunning 5-0 win over Inter Milan.
The government also announced the nomination of two other iconic Georgian athletes: Kakha Kaladze, a two-time Champions League winner with AC Milan, and Zaza Pachulia, a three-time NBA champion—as player and manager.
“Kaladze and Pachulia have achieved remarkable success but have yet to receive this state honour. It’s time to formally recognize their extraordinary contributions to Georgian sports,” said Kobakhidze.
All three nominations will be confirmed by joint agreement of the President and Parliament.
