Ronaldo leads global gaming charge as Esports World Cup ambassador

Cristiano Ronaldo has officially been named the Global Brand Ambassador for the Esports World Cup 2025, set to take place in Riyadh from July 8 to August 24. This seven-week extravaganza will feature a massive $70 million prize pool, 25 tournament games, and over 2,000 pro players representing 200 clubs from more than 100 countries. 

The Esports World Cup Foundation has tapped Ronaldo to spearhead its “Rise Above” campaign, bridging the gap between traditional sports and competitive gaming. Ronaldo echoed this sentiment, saying, “Sport is always evolving, and Esports is one more frontier… The commitment, drive, talent, and intensity I have been able to see in esports 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.” 

Ronaldo’s gaming ties run deep: he’s been involved with the EWC since 2023, made a surprise appearance at the 2024 closing ceremony, and will appear as a playable character in Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves, one of the featured games. With over 1 billion followers across social media platforms, his appointment is expected to inject fresh global attention and appeal beyond the esports scene. 

This strategic move comes amid a trend of elite athletes entering esports—Lionel Messi’s KRU Esports stake and Ruud Gullit’s Team Gullit joining Team Liquid earlier this year underscore the growing crossover. Ronaldo's ambassadorship could mark a pivotal surge in esports mainstream influence.