Ronaldo Sparks a Hidden War in Saudi Soccer: Ex-Presidents Eye a Historic Al Nassr Takeover
4 February 2026
The Portuguese star has sparked controversy in recent times.
Ronaldo’s saga reaches the boardroom
Two former presidents of Al-Nassr are awaiting a historic decision for the club in the near future, following Ronaldo's recent upheaval.
Ronaldo created a buzz in the days prior after refusing to participate in the Riyadh fixture in the Roshen League, citing unequal financial support between Al Nassr and their local rival Al Hilal.
Sky Sports noted that Saudi league officials responded to Ronaldo's claims by pointing out that Hilal's deals benefited from the support of the golden member Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal, while Nasr had no comparable fan backing.
What could change hands next
Al-Riyadhah reported that Faisal bin Turki and Ibrahim Al-Mhedheb, former Nasr chiefs, are leading a coalition to buy the club in the coming period.
Raqan Al-Qahtimi, a Nasr honorary member, has been in touch with the pair and other businesspeople who love the club to assemble as many backers as possible in a single alliance to purchase the team.
The coalition is awaiting a potential announcement from the Saudi Public Investment Fund about an upcoming sale, with indications it could buy the club outright.
As of 2023, the fund owned 75% of Al-Nassr; the Ministry of Youth and Sports held 25%; prior reports suggested Ronaldo owned around 15% since renewing his contract last summer.
In a twist, this development could open the door for a major reorganization of ownership if the fund steps in and creditors go along for the ride.
And yes, if you’re wondering, the drama isn’t just on the pitch; even the locker room seems to be filing a petition — “More cash, less drama, please.”
Punchline 1: If Ronaldo buys the club, we’ll finally learn what “flight risk” means in the transfer market.
Punchline 2: The Saudis may own the club, but Ronaldo’s press conferences will own the headlines.
