Cristiano Ronaldo Acquires 25% Stake in UD Almeria

Cristiano Ronaldo has officially entered the realm of football ownership by acquiring a 25% stake in Spanish second-division club UD Almeria. The investment was made through his company, CR7 Sports Investments, and is considered a long-term strategic move as Ronaldo transitions towards life after playing. The financial terms of the deal have not been disclosed.

Cristiano Ronaldo Purchases 25% Stake in UD AlmeriaCristiano Ronaldo buys 25% of Almeria as CR7 moves into club ownership | OneFootballBirmingham MailESPNCristiano Ronaldo makes surprise move into Spanish football with 25% stake in Andalucia clubRonaldo Acquires 25% Stake in Spanish Club AlmeriaCristiano Ronaldo acquires 25% stake in UD Almería

UD Almeria, which has been under Saudi ownership for over six years, was taken over by the Saudi Media Company (SMC) led by Mohamed Al Khereiji in May 2025. The club was relegated from La Liga in the 2023-24 season and is currently competing in Spain's Segunda División, where they are positioned third in the league, just two points behind leaders Racing Santander.

The Hindu

Ronaldo expressed his ambition to contribute to football beyond his playing career, stating, “It has been a long-time ambition of mine to contribute to football, beyond the pitch. UD Almeria is a Spanish club with strong foundations and clear potential for growth. I look forward to working alongside the leadership team to support the club’s next phase of growth.” His involvement is expected to enhance the club's development, particularly in its youth academy.

Cristiano Ronaldo acquires 25% stake in UD Almería

Mohamed Al Khereiji, president of UD Almeria, welcomed Ronaldo's investment, emphasizing his extensive knowledge of Spanish football. “We are very pleased that Cristiano has chosen our club to invest in. He is regarded as the greatest to ever play the game, 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,” said Al Khereiji.

Cristiano Ronaldo invests in UD Almería, taking 25% stake as club targets La Liga promotion | OneFootballCristiano Ronaldo acquires 25% of UD AlmeriaCristiano Ronaldo buys Spanish clubCristiano Ronaldo acquires a 25% stake in Almeria: It has been a longtime ambition of mineCristiano Ronaldo buys 25 per cent stake in UD Almeria, becomes co-owner of Spanish clubCristiano Ronaldo makes surprise move into Spanish football with 25% stake in Andalucia clubCristiano Ronaldo acquires 25% stake in UD Almería

Ronaldo's entry into the ownership group is seen as a significant boost for Almeria, which is aiming for promotion back to La Liga. The club's recent performance has positioned them well in the league, and Ronaldo's global profile could attract further investment and attention to the club.

Cristiano Ronaldo buys 25 per cent stake in UD Almeria, becomes co-owner of Spanish club

While the investment has been largely welcomed, some critics may question the implications of foreign ownership in football, particularly in lower-tier leagues. Concerns about the influence of wealthy investors on club identity and local community ties are ongoing discussions in the football community.

Express Tribune

As Ronaldo continues his playing career with Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, speculation arises about his potential future involvement with Almeria, including the possibility of playing for the club if they secure promotion to La Liga. This investment marks a pivotal moment in Ronaldo's career, as he begins to shape his legacy off the pitch.

Cristiano Ronaldo buys a club – and ‘everything points’ to him playing for themCristiano Ronaldo Purchases 25% Stake in UD AlmeriaManchester WorldESPNCristiano Ronaldo buys shares in Spanish second division clubCristiano Ronaldo buys 25 per cent stake in UD Almeria, becomes co-owner of Spanish clubAl Jazeera (website)

• “It has been a long-time ambition of mine to contribute to football, beyond the pitch.” — Cristiano Ronaldo

Cristiano Ronaldo buys stake in Saudi-owned second-tier Spanish club

• “We are very pleased that Cristiano has chosen our club to invest in.” — Mohamed Al Khereiji

Cristiano Ronaldo buys 25 per cent stake in UD Almeria, becomes co-owner of Spanish club

This investment not only signifies Ronaldo's commitment to football but also highlights the growing trend of international investments in clubs across Europe, particularly from the Middle East.

Cristiano Ronaldo acquires 25% stake in UD Almería