That’s because Patarkatsishvili is charged with committing fraud and embezzlement at Russia’s largest car manufacturer, Avtovaz. At the same time Georgia’s new president, Mikhail Saakashvili, is cracking down on corruption. Some believe that Patarkatsishvili, a media and bottled-water tycoon, is making a bid for public opinion in the hopes of evading prosecution. He’s “been scared into giving this money,” says Labor Party leader Shalva Natelashvili. A Patarkatsishvili spokeswoman says such comments don’t deserve a response; Patarkatsishvili says he was inspired to help the 35-member team through his interest in water polo. To prove his devotion he now says he’ll give $100,000 to every gold medalist.
No athlete is more likely to see that windfall than freestyle wrestler Eldar Kurtanidze, 29, who has won two bronze medals. Thanks to Patarkatsishvili, his $100 monthly government stipend has increased to $1,000. “Before, I didn’t live. I just survived,” says Kurtanidze, who resisted offers from Uzbekistan and Germany to change citizenship and join their teams. His patriotism has been rewarded. It’s unclear whether Patarkatsishvili’s will, too.
