Kvaratskhelia Celebrates Ballon d’Or Nomination

Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, a forward for Paris Saint-Germain, expressed his excitement at being included in the 30-player shortlist for the Ballon d’Or, describing it as a “pleasure” to be among such esteemed contenders. The Georgia international had a remarkable 2025-26 season, during which he was honored as the Champions League Player of the Season.

Kvaratskhelia stated, “To be a Ballon d’Or contender, it’s already a pleasure to be among these players in the race,” and conveyed his happiness about representing Georgia, emphasizing that children from small countries can achieve great things. He also addressed comparisons to Northern Ireland football legend George Best, who won the Ballon d’Or in 1968, expressing pride in the comparison but acknowledging Best's legendary status in football history.