Ronaldo 'Fleeing' to Madrid Following Iranian Missile Threat, Fabrizio Romano: Hoax!

An Italian sports journalist, Fabrizio Romano, has described reports that Cristiano Ronaldo left Saudi Arabia by private jet for Madrid due to Iranian missile threats as hoaxes. Earlier reports had suggested Ronaldo fled from Saudi Arabia to Madrid amid rising geopolitical tensions in the Gulf region. The conflict arising from US-Israel strikes on Iran had spilled over to several countries, including Saudi Arabia. The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) stepped in, delaying a number of crucial matches, including those involving Ronaldo’s club Al Nassr. The AFC said it would continue to monitor the situation to ensure the safety and security of all players, teams, officials, and supporters. Despite rumours Ronaldo had left Saudi Arabia for Madrid, Romano said the reports were not accurate. ‘Reports in international media about Cristiano Ronaldo leaving Saudi Arabia with his family are wide of the mark. It’s fake news as Ronaldo is now undergoing treatment at the Al Nassr training ground after issues in last game. Cristiano has not left Saudi to return to Madrid.’ In another post, Romano said Ronaldo had been diagnosed with a hamstring injury in the match against Al-Fayha on Sunday 1 March 2026 in the Saudi Pro League. Al Nassr’s official Instagram had also confirmed the injury. Ronaldo is now starting a rehabilitation programme, with progress monitored by the club. ‘He has begun his rehabilitation programme and will be evaluated daily.’