Cristiano Ronaldo has purchased a 25% stake in Spanish club UD Almería through his vehicle CR7 Sports Investments, his advisers have confirmed. Financial terms were not disclosed. Ronaldo continues to play in the Saudi Pro League while expanding his business interests under the CR7 brand.
Why this matters – The stake makes Ronaldo a meaningful minority owner alongside the club’s Saudi-based majority shareholders, who have controlled Almería for several seasons. Mohamed al‑Khereiji, who took over majority control in, is now club president and publicly welcomed Ronaldo’s involvement. – This is part of a growing pattern: high-profile players increasingly take minority stakes in clubs while they remain active on the pitch. Such arrangements often aim for a blend of sporting ambition and commercial opportunity rather than full operational control.
What the investment could mean on and off the pitch – Sporting influence without day-to-day management: As a minority investor Ronaldo can help shape long-term strategy—recruitment philosophy, academy priorities and international scouting—while leaving everyday operations to existing executives and coaches. – Faster commercial lift: Ronaldo’s global profile can turbocharge Almería’s visibility, sponsorship appeal and merchandising. Expect attention from new commercial partners and spikes in social engagement. – Academy and performance development: Almería already has solid infrastructure and youth systems. Strategic capital, combined with Ronaldo’s high-performance knowledge, could accelerate player development and the club’s return to LaLiga’s top flight. – Measurable indicators: Early signals to watch include academy promotions to the first team, transfer spending and new commercial deals tied to the Ronaldo brand.
Governance and risks – Minority stakes typically come with protective rights rather than control. Expect contractual clauses—performance triggers, board reporting lines and approval thresholds—that determine how active Ronaldo can be in decisions. – Conflicts of interest and continuity risks are real. Clear role definitions, conflict-of-interest safeguards and independent oversight will be essential to avoid short-term commercial deals undermining long-term sporting health. – Publicity is helpful but not sufficient. Data from ownership models suggests that lasting on-field improvement generally requires sustained investment in scouting, coaching, sports science and analytics—not just headline signings.
How the stake fits into Ronaldo’s portfolio – This move shifts Ronaldo further from brand licensing toward hands-on sports investment. His CR7 businesses already span hotels, fitness and apparel; he’s also invested in tech and wellness companies. – The Almería share is consistent with a strategy of targeted, high-profile assets that deliver visibility and potentially unlock commercial synergies across his other ventures.
Immediate next steps for Almería To turn this into lasting value, practical actions should include: 1. A measurable performance plan linking any advisory role to youth outcomes and first-team metrics. 2. A transparent commercial strategy that defines revenue sharing, brand usage and approval processes. 3. Independent oversight for transfers and long-term sporting decisions to protect the club’s interests.
What to watch over the coming months – Board appointments and any new advisory arrangements involving Ronaldo. – Transfer activity, especially in windows immediately following the deal. – Academy promotion rates and the rollout of new training or performance programs. – Commercial announcements: sponsorships, licensing deals and global marketing campaigns. If managed sensibly—combining strategic investment with robust governance—it can translate star power into sustainable growth. If governance is weak or priorities tilt too heavily toward short-term commercial gains, the partnership risks becoming little more than a headline. Fans, local stakeholders and the wider football community will be watching board moves, spending decisions and early season indicators to see which path the club takes.