Despite Saudi Arabia’s laws prohibiting non-married couples from living together, Cristiano Ronaldo and his partner Georgina Rodriguez will defy the law by cohabiting in the country.
Last month, the 37-year-old Portuguese star joined Al-Nassr after departing from Manchester United and is reportedly set to earn £175m annually.
Ronaldo’s unveiling at Mrsool Park in Riyadh saw 25,000 fans in attendance, with his family also present on the pitch.
However, living together as an unmarried couple in Saudi Arabia violates the country’s laws, as indicated by Spanish outlet SPORT.
Despite this, it is suggested in SPORT’s report, citing EFE, a Spanish news agency, that due to Ronaldo’s status as one of the world’s most marketable athletes, he is unlikely to face punishment.
Quoting two separate Saudi lawyers, it is expected that the relevant authorities will not intervene in Ronaldo’s situation, with one lawyer commenting, ‘Although the laws still prohibit cohabitation without a marriage contract, the authorities have begun to turn a blind eye and do not persecute anyone. Of course, these laws are used when there is a problem or a crime.’
