Esports World Cup Taps Ronaldo as 2025 Ambassador

The Esports World Cup announced that Cristiano Ronaldo, one of the greatest soccer players of all time, has been named the Global Brand Ambassador for the Esports World Cup 2025. 

With this partnership, the Esports World Cup 2025 aims to bridge the gap between esports and traditional sports, such as those Ronaldo plays. 

Ronaldo and Esports World Cup Comment

As ambassador, Ronaldo will lead the campaign and promote the creative theme, Rise Above. 

“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 are no different from what I’ve experienced on the pitch.

“I’m proud to join the Esports World Cup as a Global Ambassador – standing with esports athletes who rise above and inspire the next generation,” said Ronaldo.

Ronaldo has over 650 million followers on social media, but beyond that, he’s one of the greatest soccer players ever. He’s won five Ballon d’Or’s, is a 12-time Footballer of the Year, and has won 34 senior trophies, including in the Premier League, La Liga, Serie A, and the Saudi Pro League. 

“Cristiano Ronaldo connects generations — from lifelong football fans to today’s emerging competitors. His pursuit of greatness mirrors the spirit of the Esports World Cup: the biggest stage for the best players. We’re humbled to have the greatest of all time stand with us in this moment for esports,” said Ralf Reichert, CEO of the Esports World Cup Federation. 

Ronaldo Past Partnership

Ronaldo has a history with the Esports World Cup. He linked up with the organization in 2023 to announce the 2024 Esports World Cup and attended the Closing Ceremony in Riyadh. Whether he’ll be at the 2025 iteration or not is unclear. 

Ronaldo is one of the few soccer players to be involved with esports. Previously, Lionel Messi was a co-owner of the squad KRU Esports, there’s also Ruud Gullit’s Team Gullit, which Team Liquid acquired, and more. 

Fan and Internet Reaction

In response to this announcement on X, many came out to voice their opinion. 

Multi-time chess champion Magnus Carlsen replied with a goat emoji. He recently signed with Team Liquid. 

“He deserves it, and we wish him all the best as an esports ambassador,” said one X user. 

Multiple esports organizations also reacted positively to the news, including Falcons Esports, Team Vitality, REJECT, Team BDS, and more.