Cristiano Ronaldo has moved into football club ownership after buying a 25% stake in Spanish second-division side UD Almería. The Portugal captain completed the deal through his sports holding firm, CR7 Sports Investments. Financial terms were not released.
Ronaldo described the purchase as a long-term commitment and said he has wanted for years to contribute to football away from the pitch. He added that Almería has solid foundations and clear potential, and he plans to work with the club’s leadership as it enters a new stage of growth.
Ownership structure and strategic vision
UD Almería are owned by the Saudi-backed SMC Group, led by club president Mohamed al-Khereiji. The group acquired the club from Turki Al-Sheikh, chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority.
Al-Khereiji said Ronaldo’s experience makes him a valuable addition to the ownership group. He pointed to Ronaldo’s deep knowledge of Spanish football and said his involvement is expected to support both the first team and the youth program.
🚨 BREAKING: Cristiano Ronaldo expands his empire beyond the pitch!
The global superstar has bought 25% of Spanish club Almería, a second-division side backed by Saudi investors. pic.twitter.com/vnmTUhqn7u— TrendPlug (@chiby_jrn) February 26, 2026
Relegated from La Liga in April 2024, Almería are pushing for a quick return to Spain’s top division. The club sits third in the Segunda División after 27 matches, two points behind leaders Racing Santander and within reach of the automatic promotion spots.
Cristiano Ronaldo expands role as football club co-owner in Spain
Head coach Juan Francesc Ferrer, known as Rubi, welcomed Ronaldo’s arrival as a shareholder. He said the move brings excitement to the club and the region, adding that Ronaldo’s understanding of elite sport can help Almería continue to grow.
Rubi also said the club would embrace Ronaldo in any role he chooses, including as a player, though that decision would be entirely up to him.
Ronaldo, who turned 41 in February, has previously spoken about owning a club after retiring. He continues to play for Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, where he extended his contract through June 2027. He also holds a stake in that club.
During his career, Ronaldo spent nine seasons with Real Madrid, winning two La Liga titles and four Champions League trophies. His time in Spain is seen by Almería’s leadership as a key asset. Ronaldo is expected to captain Portugal at the World Cup next summer, which would be a record sixth appearance and could be his final tournament.
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