Cristiano Ronaldo Invests in Spanish Second Division Club Almería

Cristiano Ronaldo, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner, has taken a 25% ownership stake in UD Almería, a Spanish second division club. The investment, made through his CR7 Sports Investments company, marks Ronaldo’s first foray into club ownership even as still an active player.

Strategic Investment and Long-Term Ambitions

Ronaldo expressed his long-held ambition to contribute to football beyond his playing career. “I have long had the ambition to contribute to football beyond the pitch,” Ronaldo stated according to ESPN. “UD Almería is a Spanish club with a strong foundation and clear growth potential. I wish to operate with the team leading the club to support it in its new phase of growth.”

Saudi-Led Ownership and Ronaldo’s Connection

This investment follows Almería’s takeover by a Saudi Investment group in May 2025. Ronaldo’s acquisition comes as part of an ownership group led by the Saudi Media Company, which also operates Al Nassr’s stadium, Mrsool Park as reported by The New York Times. The deal is considered a long-term strategic investment from the Portuguese captain.

Almería’s Current Standing and Future Prospects

Currently, UD Almería is third in Spain’s second division, two points off the top spot. The club was last in the Spanish top flight in 2024. Almería’s president, Mohamed al-Khereiji, highlighted Ronaldo’s potential involvement in the club’s youth program, noting his extensive knowledge of Spanish football and the potential for growth as detailed in The Guardian.

Ronaldo’s Expanding Business Ventures

Ronaldo, who turned 41 on February 5th, has extended his contract with Saudi Pro League club Al Nassr through June 2027 and is expected to captain Portugal in the upcoming World Cup. He was also recently named as football’s first billionaire by the Bloomberg Billionaires Index, with income stemming from his salary at Al Nassr, as well as ventures into water, underwear, footwear, fragrance, and partnerships with brands like Nike The New York Times reported.

Reactions to the Investment

Almeria coach Juan Francesc Ferrer ‘Rubi’ expressed excitement about Ronaldo’s involvement, stating that his knowledge of the sport could significantly benefit the club according to ESPN. The investment is seen as positive news for the entire club, the city, and the province.