The Honorable Chairman of the ruling Georgian Dream (GD) party, Bidzina Ivanishvili, congratulated Georgian athletes Lasha Talakhadze and Geno Petriashvili on their outstanding achievements at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

“Congratulations, Georgia has two more Olympic champions: Lasha Talakhadze and Geno Petriashvili. The sports achievements that Lasha Talakhadze has reached in his career are truly extraordinary and inspiring. Our weightlifter has not only made history in Georgian sports but also on the world stage by winning his third consecutive Olympic gold medal in Paris. This is in addition to the 14 gold medals he has secured in European and World Championships,” stated Bidzina Ivanishvili.

Ivanishvili’s statement also highlighted Talakhadze’s remarkable record-breaking achievements. “Lasha holds world records in the snatch (225 kg), clean and jerk (267 kg), and total lift (492 kg). These records are the highest ever recorded in weightlifting. Lasha Talakhadze is not just a phenomenal athlete, but also an honourable and patriotic Georgian. I am deeply grateful to him for representing our small but proud country. His seven European titles, seven World Championships, and three Olympic golds make him a unique figure in the world of sports. We are all immensely proud that this incredible athlete is a Georgian.”

In addition, Ivanishvili extended his congratulations to Geno Petriashvili on his Olympic victory. “Geno is a shining example of perseverance and dedication. After winning a bronze medal at the Rio Olympics and a silver medal in Tokyo, Geno has now claimed the well-deserved title of Olympic champion in Paris, making the Georgian national anthem resonate around the world. I once again congratulate our heroic Olympians on this remarkable achievement.”

He also mentioned the anticipated success of Georgian wrestler Givi Macharashvili, who was set to compete in the finals, expressing confidence that Macharashvili would bring home another gold medal for Georgia.