With over 3.5 billion fans over the world, football is the most popular sport in the world. And so, it comes as no surprise that successful footballers stand out as the most affluent group of athletes globally, frequently topping Forbes' yearly ranking of the wealthiest sports figures. Renowned individuals such as Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar are not only famous for their on-field prowess but fans also want to know everything they’re doing off the field.
Moreover, it is no secret that footballers have a penchant for luxury and lead opulent lives, complete with flashy cars, designer clothing and extravagant mansions. Their taste for the finer things in life only adds to their allure and cements their status as icons of wealth and success in the sporting world. We look at private jets owned by these footballers.
7 Footballers Who Own Private Jets: From Cristiano Ronaldo to Neymar
Cristiano Ronaldo - Gulfstream G650
With a net worth of a whopping $260M, Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo is the richest footballer in the world. Ronaldo's fortune has shot up significantly ever since he decided to join Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League. Ronaldo is known for his lavish lifestyle, and besides owning a whole range of luxurious cars and uber-expensive villas worldwide, he also owns one of the fastest private jets in the world, a Gulfstream G650. The jet, valued at $65 million, boasts a range of more than 12000 km and can clock a maximum speed of 982 km/h.
Zlatan Ibrahimović - Cessna Citation Longitude
Be it on the field or off it, Zlatan Ibrahimovic always exudes sophistry. He owns a private jet, the Cessna Citation Longitude, which is one of the most luxurious and advanced aircraft on the market. The Citation Longitude is a super-midsize business jet that costs $27 million and boasts a range of over 3,500 nautical miles and can accommodate up to 12 passengers in its spacious cabin.
David Beckham - Bombardier Challenger 350
David Beckham had hung up his boots more than a decade ago, but he continues to be among the most popular faces in the world. Beckham has had an illustrious football career where he represented iconic clubs like Manchester United, Real Madrid and Paris Saint-German. Beckham owns the Bombardier Challenger 350 private jet, which costs $26.6 million. It can reach a top speed of 627 mph and has a cruising altitude of 45,000 feet, ensuring a smooth and efficient flight experience for Beckham and his family.
Lionel Messi - Gulfstream V
Lionel Messi, arguably the greatest exponent of the game, doesn't really prefer to be in the limelight like Ronaldo or Neymar, but his lifestyle is just as luxurious as anyone. Currently based in America, where he plays for Beckham's Inter Miami, Messi uses Gulfstream V as his personal jet, as reported by Aero Affairs. It can accommodate up to 16 passengers and has a range of approximately 11,000 nautical miles, making it ideal for long-haul flights. The jet is equipped with state-of-the-art avionics and amenities, including a full galley and entertainment system. Messi has also customised the staircases by engraving the name of his children and wife on all steps.
Neymar - Embraer Legacy 450
Brazilian football star Neymar Jr. is known for his affinity for all thing luxury, and one of his most prized possessions is his private jet, the Embraer Legacy 450, which costs $25.9 million. This midsize business jet is recognized for its high performance and spacious cabin, powered by two turbofan engines enabling a top speed of 840 km/h and a maximum altitude of 45,000 feet. With a range of 2,575 nautical miles, the Legacy 450 provides Neymar with comfortable and efficient travel to destinations worldwide, boasting luxurious amenities such as leather seats, a full galley, an advanced entertainment system.
Paul Pogba – Gulfstream G280
Paul Pogba, the French World Cup-winning midfielder, bought Gulfstream G280 once he moved to Manchester United. The twin-powered business jet is famous among elites and is perfect for short journeys. The $20 million jet is embedded with the most advanced technology and has also won awards for the most efficient fueling system.
Wayne Rooney – Dassault Falcon 900LX
Wayne Rooney is one of the most prolific strikers in English football. He owns the Falcon 900LX a top-of-the-line private jet that offers unparalleled comfort and performance. Boasting a range of over 4,750 nautical miles, the Falcon 900LX also has a digital flight control system and enhanced navigation capabilities, ensuring a smooth and safe flying experience for all onboard. It is valued at $20 million, as per reports.
