Ronaldo Acquires 25% Stake in UD Almeria

Five-time Ballon d’Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo has acquired a 25 per cent stake in Spanish second-division side UD Almeria, the club announced on Thursday.

The investment was executed through his newly established holding company, CR7 Sports Investments, although financial details of the transaction were not disclosed.

In a statement released by the club, Ronaldo described the move as a strategic step that reflects his long-term vision of remaining actively involved in football beyond his playing career.

The Portugal captain noted that it had always been his ambition to contribute to the sport off the pitch, adding that Almeria’s “strong foundations and clear potential for growth” influenced his decision.

Almeria, who were relegated from La Liga in 2024, are currently third in the Segunda Division, just one point behind the automatic promotion spots.

The club is owned by Saudi investment group SMC.

Its President, Mohamed Al Khereiji, disclosed that Ronaldo would be involved in strengthening the club’s youth development structure, citing his vast experience in Spanish football and deep understanding of the league system as valuable assets.

Ronaldo, 41, currently plays for Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr, whom he joined in 2023.

He also holds a minority stake in the Riyadh-based club.

The forward had a brief disagreement with Saudi football authorities over the management of the winter transfer window by the Public Investment Fund, which oversees four league clubs, but has since returned to action and netted four goals in his last three appearances.

In October, Ronaldo became the first footballer to feature in Bloomberg’s Billionaire Index, highlighting his growing business empire beyond football.

The Portuguese star is expected to compete in what could be his sixth FIFA World Cup next summer, a tournament he has hinted may mark the final chapter of his illustrious international career.