Footballers around the globe have taken their game off the field to score big in the world of business. With massive salaries, lucrative sponsorships, and a large fanbase, many high-earning players are using their wealth and influence to build successful investment portfolios. From tech startups to real estate empires, these players are showing that they can win not only on the pitch but also in the world of business. Here’s a look at some of the top-earning footballers who have made impressive strides in their business ventures.
1. Cristiano Ronaldo – The Business Mogul
Cristiano Ronaldo, often celebrated as one of the best footballers in history, has successfully expanded his brand into a business empire. His lifetime deal with Nike alone is worth a reported $1 billion, but Ronaldo has taken his investments further. The Portuguese star has invested heavily in the hospitality industry with his Pestana CR7 hotel chain, which has hotels in Lisbon, Madeira, and Madrid. He has also ventured into the world of fitness with his CR7 Fitness gyms. Additionally, Ronaldo has launched his own line of clothing, fragrances, and footwear, making his brand one of the most recognizable in sports. His diverse portfolio not only generates income but also solidifies his presence in multiple industries, securing his legacy beyond football.
2. Lionel Messi – From Football Legend to Business Investor
Lionel Messi, known for his extraordinary skills on the field, is also making strategic moves in business. Messi’s investment portfolio includes ventures in the real estate sector. He has purchased luxury hotels in Spain, such as the MiM Hotels, located in popular tourist destinations like Ibiza and the Costa Brava. Beyond real estate, Messi has partnerships with brands like Adidas, where he has a lifelong endorsement deal, and his own clothing line, The Messi Store. Messi’s business ventures are carefully curated to enhance his brand while setting up financial stability post-retirement, demonstrating that he’s a visionary not just on the pitch, but off it as well.
3. David Beckham – Building a Global Brand
David Beckham may have retired from professional football, but he’s far from stepping out of the limelight. Beckham has become one of the most successful former footballers in the business world, with ventures spanning multiple industries. In 2014, Beckham launched Inter Miami CF, a Major League Soccer (MLS) team, bringing top international players to the U.S. His influence and personal brand have also led to lucrative endorsement deals, including his long-term association with companies like H&M, Adidas, and Haig Club whiskey. Beckham has also invested in eSports through Guild Esports, expanding his influence to a younger, tech-savvy audience. With his keen sense of branding, Beckham has built a legacy that stretches far beyond his playing days, demonstrating that his name is a valuable asset on its own.
4. Gerard Piqué – A Visionary Investor
Spanish footballer Gerard Piqué is widely regarded as one of the smartest investors in the sport. Piqué co-founded Kosmos Holding, an investment group focused on sports, media, and entertainment. Kosmos made headlines when it signed a $3 billion deal to revamp the Davis Cup in tennis, showing Piqué’s ambition to transform sports beyond football. Additionally, Piqué has interests in media and gaming, and he even owns a stake in the third-tier Spanish football club, FC Andorra. His strategic approach to business and knack for spotting lucrative opportunities highlight his foresight and willingness to venture into new industries.
5. Zlatan Ibrahimović – Betting on Startups
Zlatan Ibrahimović, known for his flair on the pitch, has also made bold moves in business. The Swedish footballer has invested in startups, notably acquiring a stake in A-Z Sportswear and launching his own brand, Zlatan Legends, a mobile game. Additionally, Ibrahimović invested in Bethard, a sports betting company, further expanding his investment portfolio. With his larger-than-life personality and diverse business interests, Ibrahimović proves that he’s as fearless in business as he is in football.
Final Thoughts: Footballers Shaping the Business Landscape
These footballers are paving the way for the next generation by showing that they can thrive not only as athletes but also as entrepreneurs and investors. Their ventures reflect a broader trend of high-profile athletes recognizing the importance of financial planning and diversification. By creating long-term revenue streams and securing their financial futures, these players are leaving a mark beyond sports, contributing to industries like hospitality, tech, and media. Their off-the-field achievements make them role models for aspiring athletes and investors alike, proving that success in football can indeed translate into success in business.
In an era where athletes are building empires, these footballers stand out as pioneers who took control of their futures, demonstrating the power of strategic investments and brand-building. Whether through hotels, startups, or real estate, they continue to inspire both on and off the field.
