In a dramatic turn amid escalating US-Iran war tensions in the Middle East, football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has reportedly departed Saudi Arabia on his luxury private jet. The move comes as drone attacks targeted the US embassy in Riyadh, sparking widespread security concerns and prompting many foreign nationals, including high-profile figures, to leave the region.
Ronaldo’s Private Jet Departure: Flight Details and Speculation
Flight tracking data from platforms like Flightradar24 revealed that Ronaldo’s Bombardier Global Express (or similar high-end model like the Global Express 6500) took off from Riyadh late on Monday night (local time) and landed in Madrid, Spain, after a journey of approximately seven hours. The aircraft flew over Egypt and the Mediterranean Sea en route.
Reports from outlets including NDTV Sports, Daily Mail, The Mirror, and Hindustan Times indicate that the 41-year-old Al Nassr captain, along with his partner Georgina Rodriguez and their five children, may have been on board. This departure followed drone strikes on the US embassy in Riyadh, which caused explosions and heightened fears across the Saudi capital.
The private plane, often dubbed a “flying mansion,” is valued at around £61 million (approximately Rs 750 crore or $81 million, depending on exchange rates and model specifics). It features advanced capabilities, including a range of over 7,000 miles, seating for up to 19 passengers, high-speed cruising, and luxurious custom interiors—making it one of the most sophisticated private jets owned by any athlete.
While it’s unclear if this was a permanent exit or a temporary relocation for safety, the timing aligns with broader evacuations. Thousands of foreigners have been fleeing the region as retaliatory strikes involving Iran, the United States, and Israel intensify.