EMF President Peter Kralik recently visited Georgia to see firsthand the impressive progress being made in the development of minifootball. During his trip, he toured a newly built sports complex developed under the leadership of Georgian Minifootball Association President Otar Abuladze.
Reflecting on their earlier discussions, Peter Kralik recalled how, at the end of 2021, Otar Abuladze had asked for guidance on the steps required to achieve official recognition for minifootball in Georgia. Kralik provided a detailed set of recommendations at the time. Just a few years later, in 2026, those efforts have clearly paid off. Minifootball is now officially recognized in Georgia, and the country boasts a modern new facility with two pitches, with plans already underway to expand further due to the sport’s growing popularity.
“Minifootball is extremely popular here, but they face a similar challenge to many countries—developing sufficient infrastructure,” Kralik noted. “I strongly believe that improvements in this area will continue, both in Georgia and elsewhere.”
Kralik expressed his admiration for the strong institutional support behind the sport in Georgia. “It is always a pleasure to visit a country where minifootball is recognized, widely played, and supported by the government and the Ministry of Sport. Georgia is a great example of this.”
During his visit, Kralik held discussions about the future development of minifootball with the Georgian Minister of Sport, representatives of the capital city Tbilisi, and the Vice President of the Georgian Football Federation, which has long supported minifootball and actively participates in EMF events.
As a gesture of appreciation, Kralik presented a commemorative plaque to the Minister of Sport Shalva Gogoladze in recognition of the official acknowledgment of minifootball in Georgia. He also extended his thanks to Otar Abuladze for his significant contribution to the growth and success of the sport in the country.
Peter Kralik also highlighted Georgia’s strong ambition on the international stage. “I am very pleased, as EMF President, to see such enthusiasm from all institutions involved. There is a clear interest in hosting EMF EURO 2028, and I am already looking forward to what could be a very strong candidacy from Georgia.”
He concluded by congratulating everyone involved in the development of minifootball in Georgia, emphasizing that the country has become a model for how dedication, cooperation, and vision can successfully grow the sport.
