Cristiano Ronaldo has acquired a 25% stake in Spanish second division club UD Almería.
The financial terms of the transaction, carried out through the Portuguese captain's company CR7 Sports Investments, have not been disclosed, but the deal is seen as a long-term strategic investment by Ronaldo.
“I have long had the ambition to contribute to football beyond the field,” Ronaldo said in a statement.
“UD Almería is a Spanish club with a solid foundation and clear growth potential. I look forward to working with the team that manages the club to support it in its new phase of growth.”
UD Almería passed into the hands of a Saudi investment group in May 2025.
Ronaldo, who turned 41 on February 5, has previously expressed his desire to own a football club once he retires.
– Cristiano Ronaldo goal tracking: on his way to 1,000 career goals
– Cristiano Ronaldo reaffirms commitment: 'I belong to Saudi Arabia'
Last summer, the former Real Madrid star extended his contract with Saudi Pro League club Al Nassr until June 2027 and is expected to captain Portugal this summer in what will be a record sixth World Cup.
UD Almería president Mohamed al Khereiji is delighted to have the five-time Ballon d'Or winner on board.
“He is considered the best in the field,” Al Khereiji said. “He knows the Spanish leagues very well and understands the potential of what we are building here, both in terms of the team and the youth team.”
Relegated to the second division in April 2024, Almería is on track to achieve promotion to Spain's top competition this season. They are third in the Spanish second division, two points behind the leader, Racing de Santander, after 27 games.
