Georgian footballer Jaba Dvali died on June 3, 2026, at the age of 41 after suffering a heart attack.
Born on February 8, 1985, Dvali played as a forward for Dinamo Tbilisi, Zestaponi, Qarabag and the Georgian national team. His career took him through domestic Georgian football and into the Azerbaijani league with Qarabag.
One of the defining moments of his playing days came when he scored the first hat-trick in UEFA Europa League history. The achievement remains part of the competition record and highlighted his ability in European matches.
The news of his death prompted condolences across the football community. Former clubs and supporters have remembered his contributions to Georgian football and his time abroad.
Dvali began his professional path with Dinamo Tbilisi, a club with deep roots in Georgian football. He later moved to Zestaponi before joining Qarabag, where he gained experience in a different league environment. Appearances for the national team added international matches to his record.
The heart attack occurred suddenly on June 3, 2026. No additional medical details have been released in initial reports. At 41 years old, Dvali was still connected to the sport through his past performances.
Reactions have focused on his historic Europa League hat-trick and his service to Dinamo Tbilisi and the national team. The Georgian football community continues to mark the loss of a player whose career bridged several clubs and competitions.
His time with Qarabag placed him in a side that regularly competed in European qualifiers. Combined with his domestic record in Georgia, the body of work established Dvali as a recognised name in the region’s football circles.
