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Vandalism of Cristiano Ronaldo Statue Sparks Police Investigation in Madeira
Authorities in Portugal have launched a search for an individual who deliberately set fire to a bronze statue of football legend Cristiano Ronaldo on his native island of Madeira. The disturbing incident was captured on video and shared on social media, drawing widespread attention.
Details of the Incident
The perpetrator recorded himself dousing the statue, which commemorates Ronaldo’s illustrious career with clubs like Manchester United and Real Madrid, with a flammable substance before igniting it. As the flames engulfed the sculpture, the man proceeded to dance energetically to rap music playing from a portable speaker he had brought along.
Social Media Post and Identity
Posting the footage on Instagram under the username zaino.tcc.filipe, the individual described himself as a “person, freestyler and local man.” The caption accompanying the video ominously read, “This is God’s last warning.”
Background of the Statue
The statue, notable for its exaggerated features, was relocated nearly ten years ago by the CR7 Museum after it was previously vandalized, reportedly by supporters of Lionel Messi. Ronaldo, currently playing for Saudi Pro League club Al-Nassr, attended the unveiling ceremony in 2014 alongside his family, expressing pride in the tribute. He remarked at the time, “This is a very special moment, to have a statue of me.”
Official Responses and Investigation Status
A spokesperson for the CR7 Museum confirmed that the police are handling the case but declined to provide further details. Meanwhile, a representative from the PSP police force in Funchal revealed to local media that the suspect has been identified and is known to authorities due to previous similar offenses.
Context and Cultural Impact
Incidents of vandalism targeting sports figures’ monuments are not uncommon worldwide. For example, in 2022, a statue of Diego Maradona in Buenos Aires was defaced during a public protest. Such acts often spark debates about respect for cultural icons and the motivations behind these attacks.
Watch the Footage
Below is the video capturing the shocking act of arson on the Ronaldo statue:
