LONDON: Cristiano Ronaldo has been appointed global ambassador for the Esports World Cup 2025 in Riyadh, the tournament’s organizers announced on Friday.
The Esports World Cup Foundation said the Portuguese football legend’s appointment marked a “defining milestone” in the evolution of the tournament and the rise of e-sports as a global force.
A five-time Ballon d’Or winner and one of the most iconic athletes of all time, Ronaldo brings what the foundation described as “a powerful presence and cultural resonance that transcends traditional sports,” helping connect millions of fans to a new generation of e-sports athletes.
Ralf Reichert, CEO of the Esports World Cup Foundation, said: “Cristiano Ronaldo connects generations — from lifelong football fans to today’s emerging competitors.
“His pursuit of greatness mirrors the spirit of the Esports World Cup: the biggest stage for the best players. As global ambassador, he bridges traditional sport and competitive gaming, helping spotlight the next generation of athletes competing for global glory. We’re humbled to have the greatest of all time stand with us in this moment for e-sports.”
Ronaldo has been involved with the EWC since its inception. He took part in the global announcement of the competition in 2023 and attended last summer’s closing ceremony in Riyadh, where he joined in celebrations for Team Falcons’ historic Club Championship victory.
As a global ambassador he will headline the tournament’s global promotional campaign in the lead-up to and throughout the seven-week event and festival taking place this summer in Riyadh.
He will also appear as a playable character in FATAL FURY: City of the Wolves, one of the 25 titles featured in the 2025 tournament lineup.
With a combined social media following of over 1 billion, Ronaldo’s involvement is expected to amplify the EWC’s global reach and help introduce new audiences to the elite world of competitive gaming.
Ronaldo said: “Sport is always evolving and e-sports is one more frontier. The commitment, drive, talent, and intensity I have been able to see in e-sports athletes is no different from what I’ve experienced on the pitch. I’m proud to stand alongside these competitors and be part of a global event that’s inspiring a new generation.”
