Status: 18/09/2023, 21:57 p.m.
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Cristiano Ronaldo, one of the most famous footballers in the world, is currently in Iran and is experiencing a reception that is second to none.
Tehran – The 38-year-old Portuguese has arrived in the Iranian capital Tehran with his Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr and has caused quite a stir. This article sheds light on the background and events surrounding Ronaldo's stay in Iran.
Cristiana Ronaldo earns 200 million euros a year in Saudi Arabia. © IMAGO/Mutsu Kawamori
Arrival in Tehran and crowds of fans at the hotel
Ronaldo landed in Iran on Monday and was honoured with a traditional Persian carpet as soon as he arrived at Tehran's Imam Khomeini Airport. The Al-Nassr team bus was followed by Iranian fans, who enthusiastically welcomed the superstar and his teammates.
After his arrival, hundreds of fans flocked to Ronaldo's hotel, the Espinas Palace in Tehran. The lobby of the luxury hotel was even stormed amid shouts of "Ronaldo, Ronaldo". Photos showed crowds of fans around the hotel grounds. Ronaldo himself was escorted to his room by security guards, followed by the rest of the Al-Nassr team and their staff. An entire floor of the hotel was reserved for the Al-Nassr party, with a suite specially designed for Ronaldo.
Background to Cristiano Ronaldo's visit to Iran
Ronaldo is in Iran to face Tehran's top club Persepolis with his club Al-Nassr in the Asian Champions League. However, the match will take place without spectators. This is related to a stadium ban for a match imposed on Persepolis because of a post on social media.
The Al-Nassr group received special SIM cards that allow them to fully access the Internet during their stay. This is not possible for Iranian citizens because thousands of websites and all global news services and social media are blocked.
Cristiano Ronaldo's stay in Iran shows once again the importance of football and especially superstars like Ronaldo in the world. Despite political and social differences, sport brings people together and creates unforgettable moments.
