Cristiano Ronaldo's UK Business Ambitions Take Shape Amid Ongoing Football Career
Cristiano Ronaldo, the legendary former Manchester United forward, is reportedly setting his sights on expanding his commercial empire into the United Kingdom. Despite being 41 years old and currently playing for Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, retirement from football is not yet on the agenda for the global icon.
CR7 Brand Expansion into British Market
According to reports, Ronaldo is keen to bring his successful CR7-branded hotel and bar ventures to Britain. This move would mark a significant step in his post-football planning, although he remains actively committed to his playing career. The partnership with Portuguese hotel chain Pestana, established in 2016, has already launched CR7 hotels in major cities including Madrid, Funchal, Lisbon, Marrakech, and New York.
The Sun claims that the partnership has applied to register the CR7 trademark in the UK, indicating serious intent. Ronaldo, who retains immense popularity in Manchester from his time at United, reportedly recognises the strong market potential in the city for a bar or hotel bearing his name.
Commercial Strategy and Wealth Accumulation
Those close to Ronaldo believe his increasingly assertive commercial strategy suggests he is preparing for life after football, even as he continues to play. His business portfolio spans fashion, fitness, and hospitality, complementing his vast football earnings.
The Bloomberg Billionaires Index estimates Ronaldo's net worth at approximately £1.04 billion, factoring in:
- Career earnings from 2002 to 2023 exceeding £410 million
- Investments and endorsements, including a £13.4 million annual deal with Nike
- His lucrative move to Al-Nassr in 2022, with a reported annual salary of £177 million and a new contract extending to 2027
Football Context and Recent Tensions
Ronaldo's business moves come amid ongoing football commitments. He recently went on strike at Al-Nassr, sitting out matches against Al-Ittihad and Al-Riyadh to protest a lack of transfer activity and diminished influence of his allies at the club. This action highlights his continued engagement with the sport, even as he diversifies his interests.
In Manchester, his former team-mate Gary Neville already operates Hotel Football near Old Trafford, suggesting a receptive market for football-themed hospitality ventures. Ronaldo's potential entry could further energise this sector.
As Ronaldo balances his playing career with ambitious commercial expansion, the UK market emerges as a key frontier for his CR7 brand, promising new ventures in hospitality and beyond.
