Cristiano Ronaldo Slapped With Community Notes for Promoting Alleged Unhealthy Product as Part of $1.28 Billion Partnership

There’s a reason why Cristiano Ronaldo is among the most marketable athletes worldwide. The Portuguese superstar’s global influence makes all big brands clamoring to associate themselves with him. However, Ronaldo’s recent promotion of a $1.28 billion brand has backfired on him, as community notes have slammed him for allegedly endorsing an unhealthy product.

Herbalife is one of the companies that forged its partnership with CR7. Often seen promoting their nutrition and fitness-related products, Ronaldo recently shared a small advertisement of himself on X. He also added a caption saying, “My best moves start with the best nutrients. That’s why I don’t go anywhere without @herbalife Formula 1 to keep me at peak performance. I call this move The Formula 1 Shot. #BestMoves #LiveYourBestLife.” However, just below the post, there are not one but four community notes that are allegedly accusing the company of various wrongdoings. 

The initial note describes a report from Forbes detailing how Herbalife misled its Chinese investors by falsely claiming that they do not operate on a Multi-Level Marketing (MLM) scheme, when in fact it does. Consequently, they were compelled to pay a $20 million fine to SEC to settle the charges. Furthermore, the next story stated that Herbalife also agreed to pay $123 million to settle charges of bribing Chinese officials. 

The next link details allegations that Kamala Harris, while serving as California’s Attorney General, ignored calls from her staff to investigate Herbalife for pyramid-scheme behavior, coinciding with her husband’s employment at the law firm representing Herbalife. The final note highlights a case study of a woman who experienced liver damage suspected to be linked to the consumption of Herbalife products. Indeed, this comes out to be a huge blow for Ronaldo; but he isn’t alone to be associated with the brand.

Which other big names and teams promote Herbalife products alongside Cristiano Ronaldo? 

Beyond Cristiano Ronaldo, Herbalife sponsors over 190 athletes, teams, and events globally, including more than 150 athletes and teams across 40 sports and 5 national Olympic committees. Renowned figures like Indian cricketer Virat Kohli, MLS club LA Galaxy, and La Liga are among the notable names associated with the health and wellness company. Herbalife initiated a partnership with FC Barcelona in 2010, but the deal was not renewed beyond three years. 

Similarly, the USA-based company also secured agreements with Vietnam’s national football teams and the Australian Women’s Football Team. Notably, Ronaldo has been partnered with Herbalife since 2013, and the company introduced Herbalife24® CR7 Drive in the same year as part of its dedication to enhancing sports nutrition. Just a year ago, he extended his partnership with the company. Yet, let us know your thoughts on this matter in the comments.