Cristiano Ronaldo named global ambassador for Esports World Cup

The Esports World Cup Foundation has announced that one of the greatest footballers of all time, Cristiano Ronaldo, will be the global ambassador for the Esports World Cup 2025. Through this partnership, the organization aims to expand its reach beyond the traditional eSports audience and build bridges between traditional sports and competitive video games.

Ronaldo will lead the EWC’s global campaign throughout the event, while promoting its creative theme, Rise Above.

Sport is constantly evolving, and eSports is a new frontier. The commitment, drive, talent and intensity I’ve seen from eSports athletes is no different than what I’ve experienced on the field. I am proud to join the Esports World Cup as a global ambassador, supporting eSports athletes who excel and inspire the next generation.

Ronaldo

Cristiano Ronaldo connects generations, from lifelong soccer fans to today’s emerging competitors. His quest for greatness reflects the spirit of the Esports World Cup: the biggest stage for the best players. We are honored that the greatest of all time is with us at this moment for eSports.

Ralf Reichert, CEO of the EWCF

This is not the first time Ronaldo has collaborated with the EWCF, as in 2023 he helped announce EWC 2024 worldwide and attended its closing ceremony in Riyadh. However, it is unclear whether he will be present at the 2025 edition.

Furthermore, Ronaldo is not the only sportsman to have collaborated with esports brands in recent years. Lionel Messi was announced as co-owner of the e-sports organization KRU Esports in 2023, Ruud Gullit’s Team Gullit was acquired by Team Liquid in early 2025 and many other sportsmen have taken similar steps.