Cristiano Ronaldo’s private jet leaves Saudi Arabia following Iran bombing

Reports indicate that Cristiano Ronaldo’s luxury private jet departed Saudi Arabia overnight amid escalating regional tensions following reported drone strikes targeting the US Embassy in Riyadh.

While the aircraft made a late-night flight to Madrid, it remains unclear whether Ronaldo, his partner Georgina Rodríguez, or their children were on board.

According to flight tracking data from Flightradar24, the Portuguese football star’s Bombardier Global Express jet left Riyadh at around 8pm and landed in the Spanish capital close to 1am after a journey of nearly seven hours.

The aircraft reportedly flew over Egypt and crossed the Mediterranean before touching down in Madrid.

Ronaldo purchased the jet in 2024 for approximately £61 million after selling his previous Gulfstream G200, which he had owned since 2015.

The state-of-the-art jet can accommodate up to 15 passengers and features luxury amenities, including a private suite with a double bed, a separate shower area, and personalized branding linked to the footballer’s iconic celebration.

The reported departure came as tensions escalated in the Middle East.

Iranian state media claimed that two drone strikes targeted the US diplomatic headquarters in Riyadh overnight, while also announcing damage to a staff building in Bahrain. 

These developments follow a series of military exchanges involving the US, Israel, and Iran, contributing to heightened security concerns across the Gulf region.

Foreign nationals have reportedly been leaving affected areas as the situation intensifies.

Ronaldo, 41, currently resides in Riyadh, where he plays for Saudi club Al-Nassr, alongside Rodríguez and his five children.

However, there has been no official confirmation from his representatives regarding whether he or his family left the country.

Media inquiries have been made to his management team for clarification.

Meanwhile, Ronaldo’s former Manchester United teammate Rio Ferdinand has spoken publicly about his own experience amid the unrest.

Ferdinand, who now lives in Dubai in the United Arab Emirates with his wife Kate and their children, described feeling fearful as missile and airstrike sounds echoed overhead.

He explained that his family had taken shelter in their basement after being advised to do so when the attacks began.

Speaking on his podcast, Rio Ferdinand Presents, the former England defender compared the situation to a “Covid-like” lockdown, saying the family had resorted to home workouts and homeschooling while staying indoors.

He acknowledged the fear of hearing explosions and aircraft overhead but emphasized the importance of remaining calm for his children.

Despite describing the circumstances as “scary,” Ferdinand said he felt secure and well-supported where he was staying.

The broader conflict has raised concerns about regional stability, with governments closely monitoring developments and expatriates reassessing safety conditions across the Gulf.