Georgia’s richest man, Bidzina Ivanishvili, donated a massive sum to the national team as a reward for their incredible performances at Euro 2024.
…Georgia beat Portugal 2-0
…Progressed to knockout rounds
…Set for a £8 million windfall
WHAT HAPPENED?
Georgia’s football team has captured global attention by securing a place in the Euro 2024 knockout rounds, a feat that has exceeded all expectations. The team clinched their spot in the last-16 after a surprising 2-0 victory over Portugal. The goals came from the talented Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Georges Mikautadze, propelling the team into uncharted territory in their first-ever major tournament appearance.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
The Georgian players are set to benefit significantly from Ivanishvili’s generosity as the former Prime Minister has committed to donating £8.4 million (equivalent to 30 million Georgian Lari/$11m) to the team as a token of appreciation for their outstanding achievement in the tournament. This financial boost is not just a reward but a significant motivation for the players and coaching staff as they prepare for the next phase of the competition.
WHAT IVANISHVILI SAID
In his statement, Ivanishvili said: “30 million GEL (£8.4m/$10.62m) will be awarded to the national team. At the same time, on the initiative of Bidzina Ivanishvilli, in case of winning the [last-16 tie] meeting with advancing to the next stage, the national team of Georgia will receive an additional 30m GEL as a reward. The honorary chairman of ‘Georgian Dream’ thanks every player of the football team, the coaching staff and the Georgian fans for this historic and dream victory.”
WHAT NEXT FOR GEORGIA?
Looking ahead, Georgia will face Spain in the last-16 of Euro 2024 on Sunday. Historically, Georgia have struggled against Spain, winning only one out of their seven previous encounters. Despite these odds, the team’s current form and the promise of substantial financial rewards have infused them with renewed confidence and determination.
Goal.com
