How Cristiano Ronaldo and other sports icons' influence shape public perception

Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo celebrates scoring against Ireland | Imago

How Cristiano Ronaldo and other sports icons' influence shape public perception

Eric Munene 18:56 - 02.07.2024

Cristiano Ronaldo's Coke incident at Euro 2020 caused a massive drop in Coca Cola's market value, showing the influence top sports icons have in shaping perception of global brands.

At the 2020 UEFA European Championship, Cristiano Ronaldo, the Portuguese football maestro renowned for his athletic prowess and global influence, made headlines beyond the pitch.

During a press conference ahead of Portugal's match against Hungary, Ronaldo noticeably snubbed Coca-Cola, a tournament sponsor, by removing two bottles of the beverage placed in front of him and instead endorsing water.

This seemingly simple gesture had a profound impact, causing a staggering $4 billion drop in Coca-Cola's market value.

The incident unfolded when Ronaldo, seated at the press conference, spotted the prominently placed Coca-Cola bottles on the table in front of him.

In a swift and deliberate move, he pushed the bottles aside and lifted a bottle of water, expressing his preference for a healthier choice. His action was captured live, sparking immediate reactions across social media and financial markets alike.

Coca-Cola, one of the world's most recognisable brands and a major sponsor of the Euro 2020 tournament, saw its market value plummet shortly after Ronaldo's gesture. Investors reacted swiftly to the perceived negative publicity, resulting in a significant drop in the company's stock price.

The incident underscored Ronaldo's immense global influence beyond football, demonstrating his ability to impact corporate decisions and market dynamics with a single action.

Ronaldo's preference for water over sugary beverages aligned with his well-documented commitment to fitness and health, setting a personal example for his legion of fans worldwide.

The episode also highlighted the growing awareness and importance of athletes using their platforms to promote healthy lifestyles and environmental sustainability.

While the financial implications for Coca-Cola were stark, the incident also prompted a broader conversation about the influence of sports icons and their role in shaping public perceptions and corporate practices.

Ronaldo's stance resonated far beyond the football pitch, leaving a lasting impression on both fans and stakeholders in the worlds of sports, business, and health.