Soccer Legend Ronaldo Invests in Spanish Second-Division Team

Portuguese soccer superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has acquired a 25% ownership stake in Spanish second-division club Almeria through his investment company. The 41-year-old, who currently plays for Saudi Arabian team Al-Nassr, made the purchase as part of his ambition to contribute to football beyond playing.

Portuguese soccer legend Cristiano Ronaldo has acquired a minority ownership position in Almeria, a Spanish second-tier football club, according to an announcement Thursday from Brunswick Group, a consulting firm representing the star athlete.

The consulting company revealed that Ronaldo secured a 25% ownership interest in the club, which operates under Saudi Arabian ownership.

The 41-year-old forward relocated to Saudi Arabia in late 2022 to join Al-Nassr.

“It has been a long-time ambition of mine to contribute to football, beyond the pitch. UD Almería is a Spanish club with strong foundations and clear potential for growth,” Ronaldo stated in the announcement.

According to Brunswick Group, the legendary player who has claimed five Ballon d’Or awards made the investment through his business entity, CR7 Sports Investments.

Saudi Arabian investors have maintained control of Almeria for more than six years. Mohamed Al-Khereiji assumed ownership and the club presidency during summer 2025 after purchasing the team from Turki Al Alsheikh.

“We are very pleased that Cristiano has chosen our club to invest in,” Al-Khereiji commented in the statement. “He knows the Spanish leagues very well and he understands the potential of what we are building here both in terms of the team and the academy.”

The investment amount was not revealed publicly.

When contacted by the Associated Press for additional information about the transaction, Almeria officials did not provide an immediate response.

The club currently holds third position in Spain’s second division standings and most recently competed in the top flight during the 2023-24 season.