Brazilian football idol Ronaldinho Gaúcho has discovered a very lucrative way to extend his legacy through matches featuring football legends.
With his charismatic smile and impeccable technique every time he steps on the pitch, the 2005 Ballon d’Or winner continues to fill stadiums around the world, as evidenced by his recent appearance at an event in Angers, England. France.
In a friendly match bringing together former Brazilian football stars and players from the host country, Ronaldinho was the star of the show.
Accompanied by players such as Sonny Anderson and Claude Makélélé, the historic number 10 of Verdeamarela dazzled spectators at the Raymond-Kopa Stadium with his technique and a double, proving why he remains such an iconic figure.
The event, organized by Jogo Dos Famoso, featured a well-structured commercial format where sponsors paid between €5,000 and €20,000 for advertising space.
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SHOCKING AMOUNT
However, what surprised everyone was the amount Ronaldinho demanded for his participation in each match: a mind-blowing €220,000.
In comparison, other players received amounts varying from €2,000 to €15,000.
According to a report in French daily Le Parisien, the star’s earnings truly reflect not only his popularity but also his ability to attract high-profile sponsors, such as luxury car brand Lamborghini and other brands both from Brazil and of China.
It should be noted that Ronaldinho’s activities are not limited to the French market. Last August, the former world champion with Brazil at the 2002 World Cup in Korea-Japan took part in a match with former Portuguese stars, and new events are already planned in European countries from the East and in Cameroon for 2025. His brother and representative, Roberto Assis, negotiates his participation from €300,000 per event, according to sources cited by Le Parisien.
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This business model was key in helping the former player regain financial stability after coming close to bankruptcy in 2018.
Despite being retired, Ronaldinho retains enormous global influence: with nearly 150 million followers on social media, he serves as a unique visibility vehicle for brands. This explains why Barcelona included him in their legends matches, where his performances continue to mark him as a key figure.
In November, a free-kick goal against former Real Madrid players went viral, reaffirming his relevance as a football icon.
The phenomenon transcends sport. In November 2024, Ronaldinho made an appearance at COP 29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, where his arrival by private jet did not go unnoticed. The crowd that welcomed him highlighted his ability to create an impact, whatever the scenario, whether in China, Israel or Ivory Coast. The Brazilian star’s enduring popularity continues to ignite passions, demonstrating that his legacy extends beyond the field, even in difficult life situations.
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If we talk about critical situations, in 2020 he was detained in Paraguay after entering the country with false documents. His arrest and subsequent release after posting $1.6 million bail made headlines. Despite this episode, the Brazilian managed to restore his image and consolidate his business linked to entertainment and sporting events.
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