RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA — Portuguese football legend Cristiano Ronaldo has agreed to extend his contract with Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr by one year, keeping him with the team until June 2026.
An official from the club confirmed the agreement to Vivid Voice News on Monday, stating that while the extension has been reached, the official signing has yet to take place. An official announcement is expected in the coming days.
Ronaldo, who celebrated his 40th birthday last week, had a current contract set to expire in June 2025. Since joining Al Nassr in January 2023, the former Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus star has enjoyed a prolific spell, scoring 82 goals in 90 matches.
In August, Ronaldo expressed his intention to see out the remainder of his professional career with Al Nassr, stating that it could conclude “soon or in two or three years.”
This extension solidifies Ronaldo’s commitment to the Saudi Pro League and further strengthens Al Nassr’s ambitions within the league and on the continental stage.
“But it’ll most likely happen with Al Nassr, in the team that makes me happy… and where I feel good.”
Cristiano Ronaldo’s decision to join Al Nassr two years ago, in a deal reportedly worth $250 million, initially appeared to signal the end of his career at the highest level. However, his move to Saudi Arabia has proven to be a pivotal moment for the country’s football ambitions.
Ronaldo’s arrival triggered a wave of high-profile signings in the Saudi Pro League, attracting a host of ageing superstars. 1 This influx of talent coincided with Saudi Arabia being awarded the 2034 World Cup in December, a significant achievement in the kingdom’s broader strategy to enhance its global image through sports, tourism, and cultural initiatives.
Ronaldo’s influence extends beyond the pitch. His YouTube channel garnered one million subscribers within 90 minutes of its launch in August, reaching 20 million within 24 hours and currently boasting 73.5 million subscribers.
While World Cup glory may have eluded him throughout his career, Ronaldo continues to chase records. Despite his impressive goal-scoring record in Saudi Arabia, with 82 goals in 90 matches, he is yet to secure a domestic or continental trophy with Al Nassr, with the 2023 Arab Club Champions Cup being his sole triumph with the club.
