Ronaldo Has Put Portugal on the Global Map, Says Economy Minister
Portugal’s Minister of Economy and Territorial Cohesion, Manuel Castro Almeida, has described football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo as one of the country’s most valuable global assets, saying many people around the world know Portugal because of the legendary forward.
Castro Almeida said Ronaldo’s influence extends far beyond football, arguing that the former Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus star has played a major role in projecting Portugal’s image internationally.
“Cristiano Ronaldo has an enormous impact on the projection and value of the Portugal brand,” the minister said in an interview with Portuguese broadcaster NOW, according to reports by international sports media.
He went further to describe Ronaldo as the most famous person associated with Portugal, noting that “many people only know Portugal because of Cristiano Ronaldo.”
The minister said Ronaldo’s worldwide popularity represents a significant economic and reputational advantage for the country, adding that Portugal should continue to benefit from the footballer’s global appeal.
“It would be good if Portugal could continue to count on this asset,” Castro Almeida said, stressing Ronaldo’s importance in strengthening the country’s international brand.
The comments come amid renewed attention surrounding Ronaldo’s relationship with Portugal’s national team and head coach Jorge Jesus.
Castro Almeida, however, said he was not an expert on the football dispute and declined to take sides in the controversy, choosing instead to focus on Ronaldo’s broader contribution to Portugal’s international reputation.
The minister’s assessment echoes earlier remarks he made about Ronaldo’s influence in Saudi Arabia, where the footballer plays for Al-Nassr.
During a 2025 visit to Saudi Arabia, Castro Almeida said Ronaldo’s popularity was helping make Portugal better known among Saudis and could also support tourism and investment opportunities between the two countries.
According to the minister, Ronaldo’s profile has become so deeply associated with Portugal that his presence provides the country with a unique promotional advantage across global markets.
At 41, Ronaldo remains one of the most recognisable sports personalities in the world, with his influence extending across football, business, tourism and international branding.