Cristiano Ronaldo has signed a contract extension with Saudi club Al Nassr that will see him remain with the team until 2027—and earn a staggering €400 million per year, cementing his place as the highest-paid athlete in history.
The new deal breaks down to €33.34 million per month, €7.6 million per week, and over €1.1 million per day. That’s roughly €772 per minute and €13 per second.
Ronaldo’s latest contract, widely reported to exceed €500 million in total value once bonuses and ownership stakes are accounted for, includes not only salary but also significant performance incentives and part-ownership in the club. It builds on the transformative deal he signed in late 2022, which initially brought him to Saudi Arabia and reshaped the landscape of global football economics.
Redefining Football Salaries
With this record-breaking agreement, Ronaldo surpasses fellow footballers Neymar and Karim Benzema, who have also signed lucrative deals with Saudi clubs in recent years. While previous contracts made headlines for their eye-watering figures, Ronaldo’s latest terms have set a new benchmark. His income from Al Nassr alone now outpaces even the most profitable endorsements and contracts in global sport.
According to sources close to the club, additional clauses in the agreement allow for further earnings via marketing rights, ambassadorial duties for Saudi Arabia’s tourism campaigns, and performance bonuses tied to goals, appearances, and titles.
Beyond Football
This contract extension is not just a sporting transaction—it is part of Saudi Arabia’s broader strategy to use football as a platform for international influence. The Kingdom has invested billions into its Pro League, recruiting global stars, enhancing facilities, and marketing itself as a future host of major sporting events, including the 2034 FIFA World Cup.
Ronaldo’s global appeal is seen as key to elevating the Saudi Pro League’s international profile. Since his arrival, the league has experienced a surge in viewership, merchandising, and player transfers. His continued presence through 2027 is expected to further accelerate this growth.
The Business of Greatness
Cristiano Ronaldo, now 40 by the end of his extended deal, continues to defy expectations not only on the pitch but also as a commercial powerhouse. His brand value, combined with his unmatched social media following, brings unprecedented exposure to Al Nassr and Saudi football.
While the figure may seem extreme, analysts say it aligns with the Kingdom’s ambitious goals. “This isn’t just about football,” said one sports economist. “It’s about global positioning, soft power, and long-term investment in Saudi Arabia’s place in sport and business.”
As Ronaldo’s career enters a new chapter, his record-shattering contract ensures that he will remain not just one of football’s greatest players—but also its most valuable.
