The Georgian government has officially nominated football star Khvicha Kvaratskhelia for the Order of Victory of Saint George—one of the country’s highest state honors—after his landmark victory in the UEFA Champions League.

During a government session today, Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze praised Kvaratskhelia’s accomplishment, calling it a moment of immense national pride.

“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Khvicha Kvaratskhelia on winning the Champions League—football’s most prestigious title. His success is a source of great joy for the entire nation and is celebrated by every Georgian fan as a collective triumph,” said the Prime Minister. “We are not only celebrating his victory, but also honoring him for bringing glory to Georgia. I’m confident this is just the beginning of even greater achievements in his career. I wish him continued success.”

Kobakhidze emphasized the importance of recognizing outstanding contributions to Georgian sports and explained that the nomination came after consultations with both the President and the Speaker of Parliament, who unanimously supported the decision.

“Khvicha received the Order of Honour last year for his role in the national team. This latest achievement—becoming the first Georgian to score in a Champions League final and leading his team to a dominant 5-0 win over Inter Milan—clearly merits the highest state distinction,” he added. Kvaratskhelia currently plays for Paris Saint-Germain.

In addition to Kvaratskhelia, the Prime Minister announced that former footballer Kakha Kaladze and basketball legend Zaza Pachulia will also be nominated for the Order of Victory of Saint George.

“Kaladze, a two-time Champions League winner with AC Milan, and Pachulia, a three-time NBA champion—twice as a player and once as a manager—have made historic contributions to Georgian sports. It is long overdue to honor their achievements at the highest level,” Kobakhidze noted.

The President of Georgia is expected to formally present the awards following the joint nomination.