Bidzina Ivanishvili, the former prime minister of Georgia and founder of the ruling Georgian Dream political party, has pledged a significant donation of £8.4 million (30 million Georgian Lari) to the Georgian national football team following their stunning 2-0 victory over Portugal at Euro 2024.
Managed by former French defender Willy Sagnol, the Georgian team’s victory in Gelsenkirchen on Wednesday secured their place in the last-16 stage of the tournament, where they are set to face Spain.
Describing the win against Portugal as a “historic and dream victory,” Ivanishvili expressed his pride in the team’s achievement.
The 68-year-old philanthropist and businessman, who amassed his wealth in Russia during the 1990s through investments in banking, computers, and metals, emphasized his commitment to supporting Georgian football.
In addition to the initial donation, Ivanishvili announced that he would contribute a further £8.4 million to the squad and coaching staff should they continue their success by defeating Spain in their upcoming match.
Despite stepping down from his role as prime minister after just one year in office, Ivanishvili retains influence as the honorary chairman of the Georgian Dream party. The donations will be facilitated through his charitable foundation, marking a substantial investment in the national football team’s future.
Earlier this year, Ivanishvili’s party faced criticism from some members of the Georgian Euro 2024 squad following the introduction of a controversial law regarding “foreign agents.” The legislation, passed in parliament amidst protests alleging threats to civil liberties, sparked significant unrest in Georgia, overshadowing the country’s debut appearance in the European Championship.
Georgia’s upcoming match against Spain in Cologne on Sunday marks a crucial moment for the team, as they strive to continue their impressive journey in Euro 2024.