Cristiano Ronaldo has acquired a 25 percent stake in UD Almera, marking a major step in his post-playing ambitions. The investment comes as the club seeks promotion to Spain’s top flight following relegation from La Liga after the 2023-24 season.
Almeria, currently competing in Spain’s Segunda division, are third in the league and looking to secure promotion. The club underwent a change of ownership in May 2025 when the Saudi investment consortium SMC Group led by Mohammed Al-Khereiji took control from Turki Al-Sheikh. Ronaldo’s investment was made through the newly established CR7 Sports Investments. Details regarding the financial terms of the acquisition were not disclosed.
Ronaldo, currently an Al-Nassr player, expressed his motivation behind the move, saying it was his ambition to contribute to football off the pitch.
“It has been my long-term ambition to contribute to football, not just on the pitch. UD Almera is a Spanish club with strong foundations and clear potential for growth. I look forward to working with the management team to support the next phase of the club’s growth,” Ronaldo said in a statement.
(Credit: Almeria X)
Club owner Mohammed Al-Khereiji welcomed Ronaldo’s signing and highlighted his experience in Spanish football, citing his nine-year spell at Real Madrid where he became the club’s all-time top scorer.
“We are very pleased that Cristiano has chosen our club to invest in,” Al-Khereiji said in a statement.
“He is regarded as the best player to ever play the game. 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 academy.”
Almeria’s third-place finish in the Segunda division makes them a strong contender for promotion, with the club aiming to return to La Liga after just one season in the lower division. The club’s owners believe Ronaldo’s expertise can be key in their efforts.
Becoming a co-owner is a step for Ronaldo as he looks to life beyond football. The Portuguese superstar has said he plans to retire from football in the near future.
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Published on:
February 26, 2026
