March 5, 2026 – Cristiano Ronaldo has left Saudi Arabia and arrived in Spain following escalating tensions in the Middle East after Iran’s retaliatory missile strikes on U.S. bases.
Private Jet Departure from Riyadh
Flight tracking data from FlightRadar24 confirmed that Ronaldo’s Gulfstream G650 departed Riyadh on Monday night around 9 p.m. local time and touched down in Spain overnight on Tuesday.
The 41-year-old football superstar had been living in Riyadh with his partner Georgina Rodriguez and their five children.
Matches Postponed Amid Security Concerns
The move comes after the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) suspended eight matches in the Gulf region due to security risks following the outbreak of war between the U.S. and Israel on one side, and Iran on the other.
Al-Nassr’s quarter-final against Al-Wasl, originally scheduled for Wednesday in Dubai, was among the postponed fixtures. AFC also announced delays for all Champions League Elite Round of 16 matches in the West region citing safety concerns.
Middle East Crisis Sparks Flight
The escalation followed Tehran launching missile barrages at U.S. bases in response to joint U.S.-Israeli strikes that resulted in the death of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Spain, where Ronaldo’s jet landed, is reportedly the only European country to openly condemn the U.S.-Israeli military actions and the subsequent Iranian response.
Al-Nassr and Ronaldo’s Contract
Ronaldo, who plays for Saudi Pro League club Al-Nassr, remains under contract with the team until 2027. With the Gulf region in turmoil, his safety and family’s well-being appear to have been the priority behind the sudden relocation.
Fans and football authorities are closely monitoring the situation, with Ronaldo’s future appearances in Saudi Arabia uncertain until regional security stabilizes.