In a stunning move that could reshape the future of celebrity endorsements, tech billionaire Elon Musk has reportedly offered soccer icon Cristiano Ronaldo a staggering $100 million to become the face of Tesla’s much-hyped Cybertruck. The proposed campaign, if finalized, would rank among the most expensive athlete endorsements in automotive history — but Ronaldo’s reported response has left both investors and fans around the world in shock.
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According to sources close to the matter, Musk personally reached out to Ronaldo’s team earlier this month with a bold vision: position the world’s most followed athlete as the global ambassador for the Tesla Cybertruck, aiming to merge elite sports appeal with next-generation automotive design. The campaign would include high-production commercials, international appearances, and exclusive social media integrations across Ronaldo’s massive online platforms — which boast more than 600 million followers.
However, insiders claim that the Portuguese superstar didn’t immediately jump at the opportunity. While Ronaldo is known for his high-profile sponsorships — ranging from luxury watches to global beverage brands — his reported reaction to Tesla’s offer was described as “lukewarm” and “strategically cautious.”
“He respects Musk, but he’s not fully sold on the product or the direction,” one source familiar with the negotiation told Bloomberg Tech Wire. “He’s being very careful about his next major brand move, especially with his legacy and personal image.”
The news comes as Tesla prepares to ramp up production and marketing efforts for the Cybertruck, a futuristic, angular electric pickup that has already generated widespread buzz. Musk has publicly stated that the Cybertruck is unlike anything currently on the market — and he clearly wants a global icon to match its bold image.
But the potential partnership has stirred debate on Wall Street. Following the report, Tesla’s stock saw a slight dip in after-hours trading, with analysts split on whether the move was a savvy marketing strategy or a high-stakes gamble. Some praised Musk’s ambition to link up with one of the most recognizable figures on Earth, while others questioned whether such a massive endorsement payout was necessary — or even wise — amid rising competition in the EV market.
Social media has exploded with reactions from fans of both Tesla and Ronaldo. Some celebrated the idea of two world titans joining forces, calling it “a match made in innovation heaven.” Others expressed skepticism, pointing out that Ronaldo, now playing for Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, may be more focused on football and philanthropy than flashy product endorsements.
As of now, neither Tesla nor Ronaldo’s camp has publicly confirmed the deal or issued an official statement. Still, the buzz surrounding the potential collaboration has already achieved what Musk does best: dominate the headlines and stir public curiosity.
Whether this turns into a landmark marketing deal — or fizzles into yet another bold Musk maneuver — remains to be seen. One thing is certain: the world is watching, and so is Wall Street.
