In a landmark move that marks his deepening involvement in football ownership, global football icon Cristiano Ronaldo has acquired a 25% stake in Spanish second-division club UD Almería.
The transaction was completed through Ronaldo's newly established CR7 Sports Investments, a subsidiary of his broader business portfolio CR7 SA. This strategic investment joins the club's existing ownership group, led by the Saudi Media Company (SMC Group), which assumed full control of UD Almería in May 2025.
Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed, but the acquisition underscores Ronaldo's long-term vision for contributing to the sport beyond his playing career. The 41-year-old Portuguese superstar, who continues to excel as captain of Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, has long expressed his ambition to take on ownership roles in professional football.
Cristiano Ronaldo commented:
"UD Almería is a Spanish club with a strong foundation and clear growth potential. I look forward to working with the leadership team to support the club in its new phase of growth. This strategic investment reflects my long-term commitment to professional football ownership."
UD Almería, currently competing in LaLiga 2 (Segunda División), sits third in the table and is firmly in contention for promotion back to La Liga. The club's recent Saudi-led investment has positioned it for sustained development, with ambitions to return to Spain's top flight and build on its solid infrastructure and youth academy.
This move adds to Ronaldo's growing portfolio in the sport, complementing his existing stake in Al-Nassr, where he continues to perform at the highest level. It also places him among a select group of elite footballers transitioning into influential ownership positions.