Announcement Icon
Season's Greetings! Please note our response times may be slower over Christmas and New Year. Wishing you a joyful festive season!
Portugal Pathways Logo Dark
  • Solutions
    • Visa SOLUTIONS
      • Golden Visa
        Explore Portugal’s residency-by-investment programme
      • D7 Visa
        Visa solutions for retirees and passive income earners
      • D2 Visa
        Visa solutions for entrepreneurs and freelancers
      • D8 (Digital Nomad) Visa
        Visa support for remote workers relocating to Portugal
      • Golden Visa Fund Index
        Portugal’s top investment fund options for the Golden Visa
    • Tax & Financial Solutions
      • IFICI (NHR 2.0) Tax Incentive
        Portugal’s newest tax regime option, the IFICI (NHR 2.0)
      • Plan Early for End of NHR
        Mitigate progressive taxes by planning early for the end of your NHR
      • Tax & Wealth Management
        Optimise your cross-border income and assets for the future
      • Investment Strategy
        Investment advice aligned to your life and financial objectives
      • Business Solutions
        Business set-up, accounts, auditing and operations in Portugal
    • Real estate & concierge
      • Real Estate Solutions
        Location scouting, property research and guidance in Portugal
      • Concierge Services
        Personalised travel, private education, language, utilities and events
      • Healthcare & Insurance
        Private healthcare, insurance, and wellbeing in Portugal
      • Foreign Currency Exchange
        Make significant savings on your foreign currency transfers
      • Mortgage Solutions
        Compare mortgages in Portugal and secure the best rates

    Current NHR Tax Holders: Are you structured and protected?

    Mitigate high taxes and safegaurd your finances by planning early for the end of your NHR status!
    Explore
    Arrow Icon
  • About
  • Insights & Events
    • Insights
      • Articles
        In-depth insights and news on living and investing in Portugal
      • Guides
        Step-by-step advice for navigating life in Portugal
      • FAQs
        Clear answers to your most common questions
      • Case Studies
        Real-life success stories from our clients
    • Events
      • All Events
      • Upcoming Events
      • Past Events
      • Major Events/Festivals in Portugal
    June 10, 2025

    Securing EU Residency Through Portugal's Golden Visa

    Get EU residency by investing in Portugal's Golden Visa programme. Get dual-citizenship and freedom of movement throughout the EU for you and your qualifying family while only needing to spend 7 days per year in Portugal.
    Explore event
    Arrow Icon
Talk to our experts
Sport & Leisure
February 19, 2025

Cristiano Ronaldo’s Influence on Portugal’s Investment Landscape

Cristiano Ronaldo’s Influence on Portugal’s Investment Landscape

Cristiano Ronaldo, one of the most celebrated footballers of all time, recently turned 40. His illustrious career spans over two decades, during which he played for some of Europe’s biggest clubs, including Sporting CP, Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus, before joining Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr in 2023.

While Ronaldo’s on-field achievements have captivated audiences worldwide, his influence extends far beyond the football pitch. As his playing career has progressed, the Portuguese superstar has increasingly turned his attention to business ventures and investments, particularly in his home country.

The shift from solely focusing on football to becoming a savvy entrepreneur has diversified Ronaldo’s personal portfolio and significantly impacted Portugal’s economy and global image.

Cristiano Ronaldo started his professional career with Sporting CP in Lisbon

Ronaldo’s Investments in Portugal

Ronaldo’s investment portfolio in Portugal includes the Pestana CR7 Lifestyle Hotels brand, a partnership with the Pestana Hotel Group. This luxury chain has properties across the US and Europe, including Madeira and Lisbon, expanding Ronaldo’s influence in the Portuguese tourism sector.

Portugal’s tourism and hospitality sector continues to grow, with the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) estimating the sector will contribute €66.5 billion – 22.4% of Portugal’s economy – by 2034.

One of Ronaldo’s most recent and significant investments is the development of the new Oeiras Padel City in the Lisbon district, having bought 100% of the shares in the Lisbon Racket Centre. With an investment of over €5 million, this project will cover 15,000 square meters and feature 17 padel courts.

In addition to sports and hospitality, Ronaldo has ventured into the health and wellness industry in Portugal. He owns a hair transplant clinic with several branches across Portugal and Europe, aiming to help people improve their self-esteem.

Paul Stannard, chairman and founder of Portugal Pathways and the Portugal Investment Owners Club, said: “Ronaldo has been an iconic figure in the world, and his influence cannot be understated.

“He is the most followed person on social media, with over 1 billion followers across various platforms. The light Ronaldo shines on Portugal has further enhanced the country’s international brand awareness and increased investment interest.

“This diversification of investments showcases Ronaldo's commitment to contributing to various sectors of the Portuguese economy, and his support in bringing the FIFA World Cup to Portugal will have been significant.”

Cristiano Ronaldo has invested in various businesses within Portugal and across the world

Impact on Portugal's Economy and Global Image

Ronaldo's fame and success have significantly boosted Portugal's global profile, indirectly attracting interest and investments to the country. His status can be polarised, but his international iconic status has put Portugal in the spotlight, particularly in sports and other important sectors related to the country’s economy.

The Pestana CR7 hotel brand, for instance, has contributed to Portugal's tourism industry, attracting football fans, luxury travellers, and entrepreneurs alike. The brand has become a symbol of high-end Portuguese hospitality, blending Ronaldo's global appeal with local charm.

Ronaldo's success story has inspired a new generation of Portuguese entrepreneurs and athletes. His journey from Madeira to global stardom serves as a powerful narrative that boosts national pride and ambition. This "Ronaldo effect" has likely contributed to increased interest in Portuguese talent across various industries, from sports to business.

Ronaldo’s global brand has also had a positive impact on Portuguese exports. As a global ambassador for Portuguese products, Ronaldo has helped increase the visibility and desirability of goods from his home country.

This indirect influence has potentially opened new markets and opportunities for Portuguese businesses.

Portugal has produced multiple unicorns that have gone on to international success, such as Talkdesk and Outsystems. Portugal’s unicorns have a combined estimated total value of €40 billion, according to the International Trade Administration.

One of the main reasons for Portugal’s growth in terms of start-up innovation has been its internationally recognised Golden Visa residency-by-investment programme, which, according to Belion Partners, has brought over €7 billion into Portugal.

Portugal has become a hub for innovative businesses and start-ups

Paul Stannard at Portugal Investment Owners Club said: “The Golden Visa residency-by-investment programme has been a major contributor to supporting Portugal’s important industry sectors, especially tech and media, where Portugal has been making major strides through its thriving creative industry sectors.

"Alternative investment funds, such as the Portugal Future Fund, approved for Golden Visa, highlight why there are now over forty regulated funds specifically for that purpose.”

Portugal’s Golden Visa Residency-By-Investment Programme

For investors looking to make the most of Portugal’s thriving investment landscape, the Golden Visa residency-by-investment programme is a perfect opportunity.

Portugal’s Golden Visa residency-by-investment programme allows visa holders to enjoy visa-free travel within the EU Schengen Area, family reunification, and a path to dual citizenship and an EU passport after five years of residency.

Golden Visa holders can also potentially see a return on their minimum €500,000 investment in one or more approved alternative investment funds, and investors are only required to stay in the country for seven days per year.

Portugal Golden Visa holders can obtain permanent dual EU citizenship and an EU passport

Portugal’s alternative investment funds sometimes adopt a blended approach, investing across multiple sectors where Portugal is outperforming the market.

These diversified strategies appeal to investors seeking both more stability and exposure to high-growth opportunities, potentially mitigating risks tied to a single sector.

Paul Sheedy, international advisor to the Portugal Future Fund, an alternative investment fund approved for Golden Visa residency-by-investment in Portugal, said: “A blended approach to investment—spanning sectors such as luxury hospitality and tourism, renewable energy, media, healthcare, and technology —not only aligns with Portugal's dynamic economic landscape but also creates a resilient portfolio that thrives across sectors.

“We have seen time and time again that a blended investment approach can protect against underperforming sectors in a portfolio, giving investors more security and downside protection.”

Please contact us if you are considering investment options, such as Golden Visa residency-by-investment, or if you would like to learn more about the Portugal Investment Owners Club or Portugal Future Fund.

About Portugal Pathways

Portugal Pathways has assisted hundreds of investors in securing Golden Visa residency-by-investment. Through its expert network, the company provides guidance on luxury property, wealth management, tax optimisation—including post-NHR planning—private healthcare, IFICI tax incentives, money transfers, and bespoke relocation solutions.

About Portugal Future Fund

The Portugal Future Fund strategically invests in high-growth sectors to drive economic innovation. Approved for Portugal’s Golden Visa residency-by-investment, it provides investors with an exclusive opportunity to participate in Portugal’s ongoing development.

About Portugal Investment Owners Club

The Portugal Investment Owners Club (P Club) is an exclusive membership community for discerning investors, families, and organisations seeking to capitalise on Portugal’s economic opportunities while enjoying unparalleled lifestyle experiences and exclusive events.

‍

Disclaimer: The information on the Portugal Pathways and Portugal Investment Owners Club (P Club for short) websites and in email communications is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, tax, or financial advice. You should consult and check with a qualified professional advisor before relying on any information provided on this website or in email communications. As it relates to investments in Golden Visas or other wealth management solutions offered by regulated and professional advisors, it is important to note that past performance is no guarantee of future returns. Private equities can be highly illiquid and come with risk and should always be under professional independent advice.

Current NHR Tax Holders: Are you structured and protected?

Mitigate high taxes and safegaurd your finances by planning early for the end of your NHR status!

Explore

Related Articles

View all
Portugal’s Property Market Predicted to Grow at Over Twice the Rate of EU, UK, and North America Until 2027
Property

Portugal’s Property Market Predicted to Grow at Over Twice the Rate of EU, UK, and North America Until 2027

Read more
Arrow Icon
Portugal Drives World-Leading European Private Equity Performance
Visa & Finance

Portugal Drives World-Leading European Private Equity Performance

Read more
Arrow Icon
Existing NHR Tax Holders Fail to Act Early Enough to Mitigate Impending Tax Hike
Visa & Finance

Existing NHR Tax Holders Fail to Act Early Enough to Mitigate Impending Tax Hike

Read more
Arrow Icon
View all
Contact Us

Maximise your wealth, tax status, property & life in Portugal

Talk to our expert team, so that we can offer personalised support to meet your specific needs.

Interested in partnering with us? Contact Us >Do you have a media enquiry? Contact Us >
Please note that during the Christmas and New Year period, response times for form submissions may be longer than usual. We appreciate your understanding and patience during this festive season. Our team will do their best to attend to your submissions as promptly as possible. Wishing you a wonderful holiday season!
In order for us to best help you, please state: what solutions you require, the status of your residency, if you hold NHR tax status, if you are currently applying/intending to apply for NHR, if you hold a NIF ID, if you are currently applying/intending to apply for a NIF ID, if you have medical insurance in Portugal, and if you have proof of an address in Portugal, in addition to any other pertinent information.
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Portugal Pathways Logo White

Sign up for updates

Stay informed and be the first to know about our latest newsletters, articles, guides, and exciting upcoming events

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Facebook IconIstagram IconTwitter/X IconLinkedIn Icon
Visa Solutions
Visa SolutionsGolden VisaD7 VisaD2 VisaDigital Nomad VisaGolden Visa Fund Index
Tax & Financial Solutions
IFICI (NHR 2.0)Post-NHR PlanningFinancial PlanningInvestment StrategyBusiness Operations
Real Estate & Concierge
Real Estate SolutionsConcierge ServicesHealthcare & InsuranceForeign CurrencyMortgage Solutions
Links
About usSolutionsCase StudiesArticlesGuidesFAQsEvents & WebinarsContact
© 2025 Portugal Pathways Limited. All rights reserved.
Privacy policyTerms of service

Disclaimer: The information on the Portugal Pathways and Portugal Investment Owners Club (P Club for short) websites and in email communications is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, tax, or financial advice. You should consult and check with a qualified professional advisor before relying on any information provided on this website or in email communications. As it relates to investments in Golden Visas or other wealth management solutions offered by regulated and professional advisors, it is important to note that past performance is no guarantee of future returns. Private equities can be highly illiquid and come with risk and should always be under professional independent advice.

Upcoming Webinar
Investing in Portugal: Optimise your income and assets for the future
January 16, 2024 4:00 PM

Gain expert insight and guidance from our specialist panel on navigating Portugal's investment opportunities, such as Portuguese investment funds and real estate. Hear experts discuss optimising your income, wealth, assets, and tax position going forward.

Register