Billionaire Former PM Promises £8.4m Donation to Georgia's National Football Team

Bidzina Ivanishvili, the former prime minister of Georgia and founder of the ruling Georgian Dream party, has committed to donating £8.4 million to the country's football team following their stunning 2-0 victory over Portugal at Euro 2024.

Managed by former French defender Willy Sagnol, Georgia secured a historic win in Gelsenkirchen on Wednesday, advancing to the last-16 stage where they will meet Spain.

"Ivanishvili, 68, who amassed his wealth through investments in banking, computers, and metals, expressed his excitement over what he called a 'historic and dream victory' against Portugal," a spokesperson stated.

Should Georgia defeat Spain in their upcoming match in Cologne on Sunday at 8pm BST, Ivanishvili has pledged an additional £8.4 million (30 million Georgian Lari) to the squad and coaching staff. His wealth, estimated at £3.87 billion by Forbes, will fund the donations through his charitable foundation.

"While Ivanishvili resigned from his prime ministerial role after a year, he remains influential as the Georgian Dream party's honorary chairman," the spokesperson confirmed.

Earlier this year, members of Georgia's Euro 2024 squad voiced their concerns regarding legislation on "foreign agents" proposed by the Georgian Dream party, prompting significant public protests.

Georgia, making their debut at the European Championship, faces Spain in a highly anticipated match as they continue their journey in the tournament.