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Juventus lost their legal appeal against former player Cristiano Ronaldo on January 20, 2026. The Turin Labour Court dismissed the club’s attempt to recover the €9.8 million (£8.5 million; $11.5 million) it paid Ronaldo in 2024. The decision ended Juventus’ effort to reclaim funds related to a disputed salary reduction during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Background of the Long-Running Dispute
Cristiano Ronaldo joined Juventus from Real Madrid in 2018. He left the club in 2021 to rejoin Manchester United. During the Covid-19 pandemic, Juventus negotiated salary deferrals with players to ease financial pressures. Ronaldo agreed to defer part of his wages. However, he later claimed nearly €20 million in unpaid wages from his time at the club.
Initial Arbitration Ruling in 2024
In April 2024, an arbitration board examined the case. The board rejected Ronaldo’s full claim of invalidity and fraud by Juventus. Instead, it ordered Juventus to pay half the disputed amount to Ronaldo, plus interest and legal costs. Juventus complied and transferred approximately €9.8 million to Ronaldo.
Juventus Appeal and Court Decision
Juventus appealed the 2024 ruling to the Turin Labour Court. The club sought to recover the payment. Judge Gian Luca Robaldo heard the case and dismissed Juventus’ appeal. The court upheld the original arbitration decision. As a result, Juventus could not reclaim the €9.8 million already paid.
Additional Costs for Juventus
The Turin Labour Court also ordered Juventus to cover €80,000 in legal fees. The ruling confirmed Ronaldo’s right to retain the funds. Juventus stated they would review their options for a potential further appeal.
Cristiano Ronaldo retained the €9.8 million payment. The decision closed this stage of the dispute over deferred wages from the pandemic period. Juventus faced a financial setback but continued to assess next steps in the matter. The case stemmed from broader issues at the club during that era, including financial reporting of player agreements.
