In a landmark move that signals the next chapter of his legendary career, Cristiano Ronaldo has officially entered the world of football club ownership. The global superstar has acquired a 25% stake in the Spanish club UD Almería through his venture, CR7 Sports Investments. This strategic acquisition marks Ronaldo's first significant foray into European club management as he prepares for life after the final whistle. Partnering with the club's Saudi-led ownership group, the move aims to revitalize the 'Indálicos' and spearhead their return to the elite level of La Liga.
Breaking Down the Historic Deal
The announcement, made on Thursday, February 26, 2026, confirms that Ronaldo has purchased a quarter of the club's shares. While financial terms were not officially disclosed, industry insiders estimate the investment to be in the region of €25 million, valuing the club at approximately €100 million. This acquisition is executed through CR7 Sports Investments, a subsidiary of his main holding company, CR7 SA.
Ronaldo joins forces with the current ownership group led by Mohamed Al Khereiji and the SMC Group. Al Khereiji, who took over the club in May 2025 following the tenure of Turki Alalshikh, expressed immense enthusiasm about the partnership. "We are very pleased that Cristiano has chosen our club to invest in," Al Khereiji stated. "He knows the Spanish leagues very well and understands the potential of what we are building here." This collaboration solidifies the strong ties between Spanish football and Saudi investment, bridging Ronaldo's current tenure at Al-Nassr with his European legacy.
Why UD Almería? A Strategic Choice
For many observers of Spanish football business, UD Almería represents a sleeping giant with high upside. Currently sitting third in the Segunda División (La Liga Hypermotion), the club is in the thick of a promotion battle, trailing leaders Racing Santander by just two points. Ronaldo's injection of capital and global branding could be the catalyst needed to secure automatic promotion back to the top flight.
Focus on Youth and Infrastructure
Beyond the first team's immediate goals, the investment is deeply rooted in long-term development. Ronaldo has cited the club's strong foundations and youth academy as key drivers for his decision. "I have long had the ambition to contribute to football beyond the pitch," the 41-year-old icon remarked. "UD Almería is a Spanish club with clear growth potential." The influx of resources is expected to bolster the club's academy, infrastructure, and scouting networks, aiming to turn Almería into a sustainable powerhouse in Spanish football.
Cristiano Ronaldo Net Worth 2026 and Business Empire
This move is the latest jewel in an ever-expanding business portfolio. With a Cristiano Ronaldo net worth in 2026 estimated at over $1.4 billion by Bloomberg, the Portuguese forward has successfully diversified his wealth far beyond his playing salary. His empire already includes the Pestana CR7 hotel chain, hair transplant clinics, fitness centers, and significant stakes in health-tech companies like Whoop and Bioniq.
By establishing CR7 Sports Investments, Ronaldo is following a growing soccer investment trend where elite athletes transition into ownership roles. He joins the likes of David Beckham (Inter Miami), Kylian Mbappé (SM Caen), and LeBron James (Liverpool FC minority stake) in leveraging personal brand equity to build generational wealth in the sports sector. This trend highlights a shift where players are no longer just employees but active stakeholders in the global sports economy.
The Saudi Connection and Future Outlook
The deal also underscores the deepening relationship between Ronaldo and the Saudi sports ecosystem. playing for Al-Nassr since 2023, Ronaldo has become the face of the Saudi Pro League. His partnership with Al Khereiji's SMC Group—a prominent Saudi conglomerate—further integrates his brand with the Kingdom's sporting ambitions.
As the 'Indálicos' push for promotion in the final months of the 2025/26 season, the presence of a five-time Ballon d'Or winner in the boardroom brings unprecedented attention to the Andalusian club. Fans and investors alike will be watching closely to see if the "Ronaldo Effect" can translate from the pitch to the boardroom, transforming UD Almería ownership news into a success story of European football.
