“For years, Guram Kashia was not simply a leader on the field. He was an example of dignity, professionalism and selfless commitment, and that example has left its mark on generation after generation,” Georgian President Mikheil Kavelashvili wrote on social media.

Kashia’s name, the President declared, will remain forever woven into the history of Georgian football.

“Today, during the friendly match between Georgia and Romania, we bid farewell with profound emotion to one of the most remarkable players and captains our national team has ever known, Guram Kashia.

For years, he was not simply a leader on the field. He was an example of dignity, professionalism and selfless commitment, and that example has left its mark on generation after generation.

Guram gave us all unforgettable moments and victories that truly mattered, and his name will endure in the annals of Georgian football for this reason.

Thank you for everything, Captain! Thank you for those years in which you served Georgia with your whole heart. I wish you every success in this new chapter of your life. Your place in the history of Georgian football is already one of distinction and honour.

I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to personally thank Guram, alongside my children, Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, and Tbilisi Mayor Kakha Kaladze, for all his valuable contributions to Georgian football.

It was a particular pleasure to congratulate our national team’s new captain, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, on this special day, marking both his Champions League title and his award as the tournament’s best player,” Mikheil Kavelashvili posted on social media.

Georgia’s national football team faced Romania in a friendly match at the Mikheil Meskhi Stadium in Tbilisi, the game ending in a draw. The occasion marked the final appearance in a national team shirt for long-serving captain Guram Kashia, who bade farewell to supporters having made 129 appearances for his country. The captaincy now passes to Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.