Portuguese footballer Cristiano Ronaldo has left Saudi Arabia for Spain amid escalating conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States, according to multiple media reports.
Ronaldo reportedly departed Riyadh on a private jet along with his partner, Georgina Rodriguez, and their five children. The move comes as regional tensions intensify and security concerns rise across West Asia.
Iran has launched attacks targeting Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia. A recent drone strike on the US embassy in Riyadh has added to concerns. Several governments in the region have advised foreign nationals to consider returning to their home countries.
Private jet departure confirmed
British newspaper The Sun reported that Ronaldo travelled on his personal Gulfstream G650 aircraft, valued at approximately ÂŁ67 million. The long-range jet can fly more than 7,000 miles without refuelling and accommodate up to 19 passengers.
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Data from the flight tracking website Flightradar24 showed an aircraft matching the flight path travelling from Riyadh to Spain via Egypt and the Mediterranean Sea.
While Ronaldo has left the country, there have been no reports of other foreign players departing Saudi Arabia. They remain with their respective teams.
Al Nassr's matches postponed
The ongoing conflict has affected sporting events. Al Nassr's fixture in the AFC Champions League has been postponed amid security concerns.
Ronaldo is currently recovering from an injury and is not available for selection. The duration of the conflict remains uncertain, and no timeline has been given for a return to normal conditions.
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Observers note that the decision to leave comes amid growing instability in the region.
Separately, Ronaldo recently expanded his business interests by acquiring a 25 per cent stake in Spanish second-division club UD AlmerĂa from a Saudi businessman.
There has been no official statement from Ronaldo or his representatives regarding the departure.