Authorities in Madeira are actively searching for a vandal who filmed himself setting fire to a bronze statue of Cristiano Ronaldo outside the CR7 Museum in Funchal. The individual, appearing disheveled, was recorded pouring a flammable liquid over the statue before igniting it and performing an erratic dance to rap music. He later shared the disturbing footage on Instagram with the cryptic caption: "This is God's last warning." Although the suspect has been identified, he has yet to be apprehended.
Disturbing Incident Captured on Video
The bizarre arson attack occurred on Tuesday morning when the vandal targeted the 11-foot statue of the football legend, which stands proudly on his home island of Madeira. In the footage, the perpetrator can be seen dousing the statue in a flammable substance before lighting it on fire outside the CR7 Museum. As flames engulfed the bronze effigy, he stepped back to dance wildly to loud rap music, culminating in a series of obscene gestures directed at the statue, which was unveiled by Ronaldo himself in 2014.
The unsettling video was shared on Instagram by a user who described himself as a "freestyler and local man." The accompanying caption, “This is God's last warning,” sparked outrage among Ronaldo's passionate fanbase, many of whom have condemned the act as a misguided attempt to gain attention. While it remains uncertain if the statue has suffered lasting damage, initial reports suggest the flames subsided relatively quickly after the fire began.
Authorities Act Swiftly to Identify the Suspect
Local law enforcement in Funchal has responded promptly to the incident. A source from the PSP police department confirmed that the vandal has been identified and is known for similar disturbances in the past. However, police are still working to locate him. A representative from the CR7 Museum remarked that the situation is currently under police investigation and declined further comments on the matter.
This is not the first time the statue has faced vandalism; it was relocated to its current site in 2016 after being defaced by fans of Lionel Messi. The bronze statue is distinct from the infamous airport bust that drew worldwide criticism for its inaccurate depiction of the Portuguese superstar. When the statue was first targeted in 2016, Ronaldo’s sister, Katia Aveiro, expressed her outrage, labeling those responsible as "savages" and suggesting they should be sent to Syria for their lack of respect.
Ongoing Legacy of Controversy Surrounding Ronaldo’s Image
Katia Aveiro condemned the disrespect shown towards her brother, emphasizing that Ronaldo’s achievements have contributed significantly to Madeira's reputation as a leading island destination. She lamented the presence of individuals who harbor envy and frustration, calling for greater respect and unity within the community. While Ronaldo now plays in the Saudi Pro League, his legacy continues to resonate strongly in Madeira. It remains unclear how his family will address this latest act of vandalism against the five-time Ballon d'Or winner. The ongoing incidents surrounding the statue highlight the complex relationship between celebrity and public sentiment, particularly in Ronaldo’s home territory.
