Speaker of Georgia’s Parliament Shalva Papuashvili addressed attendees at the 2025 Athlete of the Year awards ceremony, emphasizing the vital role of sport from both a national and state perspective.

Papuashvili described sport as the embodiment of victory—one achieved through relentless effort, overcoming obstacles, and enduring setbacks and failures. He noted that Georgian sport, rooted in a centuries-old tradition, remains a profound source of national pride, reflecting the country’s historic spirit of strength, dignity, and chivalry.

According to the Speaker, sport is not merely a competitive pursuit but a way of life marked by dedication, the transfer of knowledge between generations, and personal integrity. He stressed that the honour earned through sport carries responsibility and extends far beyond an athlete’s active career.

“For a country like Georgia, sport means carrying our nation’s name with pride, raising its flag, hearing its anthem, and sharing victories as one people,” Papuashvili said, adding that true sporting success comes from hard work combined with talent and perseverance.

He expressed confidence that Georgia’s greatest sporting achievements are still ahead, pointing to the presence of athletes from multiple generations as proof of the country’s enduring strength in sport. Papuashvili also highlighted the inspirational impact of these achievements on young people watching the ceremony across the country.

Concluding his remarks, the Speaker reaffirmed the state’s commitment to supporting and developing sport, calling it a powerful force for national unity and motivation, and expressing optimism that Georgians will celebrate many more victories together in the years to come.