Guram Kashia to retire from Georgia national team after June friendly

Georgia international Guram Kashia has announced he will retire from international football, confirming that his final appearance for the national team will come in a June friendly against Romania.

In a statement, the 38-year-old defender said it was time to bring an end to his 17-year international career, describing the decision as difficult but necessary.

Kashia also expressed condolences following the death of Ilia II, calling it “a hard time for the entire country”.

“I wanted to personally inform you - the fans of the national team and the whole country - that at the age of 38 the time has come to thank you and announce the end of my 17-year international career,” he said.

The long-serving captain reflected on what he described as a “long, interesting and memorable” journey, highlighting the honour of representing Georgia and playing alongside multiple generations of Georgian footballers.

He also pointed to one of the defining achievements of his career - helping Georgia national football team qualify for the UEFA European Championship for the first time - as a moment that fulfilled a long-standing national ambition.

“It is a great honour to be the captain of such a talented and proud team,” Kashia said, adding that every moment spent with teammates and coaches would remain unforgettable.

He thanked supporters for their continued encouragement throughout his career, both in stadiums and beyond, and expressed gratitude to the Georgian Football Federation for its support.

Kashia confirmed that he will earn his 129th and final cap in the friendly match against Romania in June, after which he will step away from international duty.