Following a joint endorsement by Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze and Parliament Speaker Shalva Papuashvili, Georgian President Mikheil Kavelashvili presented Orders of Honor and Honor Medals to members of the national rugby team, coaches, staff, and the leadership of the Rugby Union, as reported by the Government Administration.

These prestigious state awards were bestowed upon the rugby players in recognition of their remarkable athletic achievements, particularly for their historic victories in 2022 against Italy and Wales.

Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze congratulated the rugby team on receiving the awards and their triumph in the 2025 Rugby Europe Championship final. He highlighted rugby’s special place in Georgian culture, expressing deep personal sentiment toward the sport, which has been growing since the 1970s and has seen significant successes.

“Rugby holds a unique place for us Georgians, and our love for the game is unmatched. Personally, I have a special connection to rugby, shaped in part by my family's experience with it. Since the 1970s, rugby in Georgia has grown, and we’ve achieved major milestones,” Kobakhidze stated.

Looking ahead, the Prime Minister expressed confidence in Georgian rugby’s future. “I am certain that Georgian rugby will continue to achieve great things. We are eagerly anticipating the World Cup in two years, and we hope for groundbreaking success, not just in the group stage but also in the knockout rounds. I have no doubt that in the years ahead, you will accomplish even greater feats. You represent a proud and hardworking generation, and I wish you continued success."

Soso Tkemaladze, President of the Rugby Union, expressed gratitude to the Georgian government for its support in the sport's development. The ceremony was attended by members of the Cabinet of Ministers.