Cristiano Ronaldo has committed his future to Al-Nassr, signing a new two-year contract that cements his status as the highest-paid athlete in the world and signals his likely retirement at the Saudi Pro League club.
World Record Salary
Ronaldo’s new deal, confirmed after weeks of speculation about his future, is valued at a staggering £492 million over two years, with a basic annual salary of £178 million—equivalent to £488,000 per day. The contract includes a signing-on fee of £24.5 million, rising to £38 million if he stays for the second year.
Ownership Stake and Bonuses
A unique aspect of the agreement is a 15% ownership stake in Al-Nassr, reportedly worth £33 million. Ronaldo is also eligible for multiple performance-related bonuses:
- £8 million if Al-Nassr wins the Saudi Pro League
- £5 million for winning the Asian Champions League
- £4 million for finishing as the league’s top scorer (Golden Boot)
- £80,000 per goal and £40,000 per assist, both increasing by 20% in the second year
Additional Benefits
The contract extends beyond football, with Al-Nassr covering the costs of a 16-person entourage for Ronaldo—including drivers, housekeepers, chefs, gardeners, and security—at a cost of about £1.4 million. He also receives a £4 million private jet allowance and is expected to benefit from £60 million in sponsorship deals.
Role as Ambassador and Legacy
Ronaldo’s new role positions him as a “dream ambassador” for both Al-Nassr and Saudi Arabia, reflecting the club’s hopes that he will remain a global face for their sporting ambitions even after his playing days end. Despite Al-Nassr’s recent struggles—missing out on major trophies and Champions League qualification—Ronaldo has been the Saudi Pro League’s top scorer for two consecutive seasons, scoring 35 goals in 41 appearances last season and nearing the 1,000 career goal milestone.
Contract Highlights Table
Feature | Value/Details |
---|---|
Contract Length | 2 years (until 2027) |
Annual Salary | £178 million |
Daily Salary | £488,000 |
Signing-on Fee | £24.5 million (up to £38 million) |
Ownership Stake | 15% of Al-Nassr (£33 million) |
Bonus per Goal | £80,000 (20% increase in year 2) |
Bonus per Assist | £40,000 (20% increase in year 2) |
League Title Bonus | £8 million |
Golden Boot Bonus | £4 million |
Asian Champions League Win | £5 million |
Private Jet Allowance | £4 million |
Personal Staff | 16 full-time, £1.4 million cost |
Sponsorship Deals | £60 million |