Modern football is no longer limited to the 90 minutes spent on the pitch. The planet’s biggest stars have become genuine international brands, dividing their time between competitions, advertising campaigns, private events, and commitments to their commercial partners—hence their use of private jets.
For these players, every trip is a matter of strategic importance.
Between league matches, European fixtures, national team call-ups, and sponsorship commitments, the weeks fly by at a breakneck pace. In this context, traveling on commercial flights often becomes incompatible with their daily lives.
That is why many superstars choose business aviation.
A private jet allows them to save precious time, ensure they get proper physical recovery, and travel with the utmost discretion. Far from airport queues and crowded terminals, they can fly directly to their destination while enjoying exceptional comfort.
Which aircraft do footballers prefer?
A trend quickly emerges when looking at the choices made by the world’s greatest players.
The most popular aircraft come from a few renowned manufacturers:
Gulfstream, famous for the ultra-long-range jets used by many celebrities;
Bombardier, whose Challenger and Global models are prized for their comfort;
Dassault Aviation, the French benchmark in business aviation;
Embraer, a Brazilian manufacturer known for high-performance, elegant aircraft;
Cessna, particularly appreciated for mid-size jets that offer an excellent balance between performance and operating costs.
Each model meets different needs.
Some prioritize range, enabling them to cross multiple continents without a stopover.
Others prioritize comfort above all else, with cabins capable of accommodating around fifteen passengers, featuring bedrooms, meeting rooms, and even dining areas.
One thing is certain: the aircraft chosen by top football stars rank among the most luxurious private jets ever built.
Now that we have explored why football’s biggest stars favor business aviation, let’s look at the rankings. Combining absolute comfort, exceptional range, and cutting-edge technology, these aircraft are veritable flying palaces, capable of…
1. Cristiano Ronaldo – Gulfstream G650
If there is one player whose lifestyle perfectly reflects his status as a global superstar, it is Cristiano Ronaldo.
Over the course of his career, the Portuguese star has become much more than just a footballer. Thanks to record-breaking salaries, endorsement deals, and his CR7 empire, he ranks among the wealthiest athletes on the planet.
To keep up with this jet-setting lifestyle, Cristiano Ronaldo has long relied on a Gulfstream G650, widely considered one of the finest private jets ever built.
Valued at approximately €65 million, the aircraft can accommodate up to 18 passengers in exceptional comfort. It boasts a range of over 12,000 kilometers—allowing for ultra-long-haul, non-stop flights—and a cruising speed of around 1,000 km/h.
On board, every detail is designed for maximum comfort: fully reclining seats, dedicated rest areas, high-speed internet, and a cabin that can be customized to the owner’s specific needs.
In recent years, however, various industry publications have noted that Cristiano Ronaldo also frequently charters private jets for certain trips, a solution that offers greater flexibility. Whether he owns the aircraft or charters one as needed, business aviation remains a key part of his travel arrangements.
2. Lionel Messi – Embraer Legacy 650
Like Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi owns a private jet that has become well-known among football fans.
The Argentine travels aboard an Embraer Legacy 650, an aircraft valued at approximately €35 million.
Since joining Inter Miami, the jet has allowed him to quickly travel between the United States, Argentina, and Europe to fulfill his numerous professional and personal commitments.
The Legacy 650 is renowned for its excellent balance of performance and comfort.
It can carry up to 14 passengers, has a range of around 7,000 kilometers, and features a particularly spacious cabin equipped with a sleeping area, a galley, and extensive multimedia amenities.
Messi regularly uses the plane to travel with his family, as well as to honor commercial commitments and join the Argentine national team for international fixtures.
The aircraft has even gained fame for its personalized touches, featuring the names of his wife, Antonela, and his children inscribed on the boarding steps.
3. Zlatan Ibrahimović – Cessna Citation Longitude
Even after hanging up his boots, Zlatan Ibrahimović continues to lead a life that mirrors his career: spectacular, ambitious, and resolutely focused on excellence. The former striker—who played for clubs such as Paris Saint-Germain, AC Milan, FC Barcelona, Manchester United, and Inter Milan—has remained true to his reputation as a strong-willed man with a passion for fine machinery and luxury. For the Swede, every choice reflects a specific lifestyle that blends comfort, performance, and elegance.
Among his most prestigious assets is a Cessna Citation Longitude, a state-of-the-art private jet valued at nearly €25 million. Renowned for its performance and exceptional comfort, the aircraft is one of the most sought-after models in the high-end business aviation sector.
Capable of accommodating up to a dozen passengers, the Citation Longitude boasts a range of over 6,000 kilometers, enabling non-stop long-haul international travel. Its spacious interior, remarkably quiet cabin, and premium amenities ensure an optimal travel experience, whether for business or leisure.
4. David Beckham – Bombardier Challenger 350
Even after retiring from professional football, David Beckham remains one of the most influential figures in global sports and business. A former star of Manchester United, Real Madrid, LA Galaxy, and Paris Saint-Germain, the Englishman has built a genuine empire off the pitch. Between his role as co-owner of Inter Miami, numerous contracts with prestigious brands, and various entrepreneurial ventures, Beckham constantly travels to all corners of the globe.
To keep up with this demanding schedule, the former England captain relies on a Bombardier Challenger 350, a high-end private jet valued at nearly €23 million. Renowned for its reliability and excellent performance, the aircraft is a benchmark in the business aviation sector.
The Challenger 350 accommodates around ten passengers in a spacious, refined cabin. Its interior is designed for optimal comfort, featuring seats that convert into beds, modern workspaces, full connectivity, and state-of-the-art amenities. With a range of approximately 6,300 kilometers, it enables long-haul international flights under ideal conditions, without the need for multiple stopovers.
Highly popular among business leaders, executives, and international celebrities, the Bombardier Challenger 350 is considered one of the top-performing private jets in its class. For David Beckham, the aircraft represents far more than just a means of transport; it supports a daily life defined by numerous responsibilities and reflects the lifestyle of a figure who continues to hold a prominent place on the international stage.
5. Paul Pogba – Gulfstream G280
Despite a career recently disrupted by several injuries and a suspension, Paul Pogba remains one of the most high-profile French footballers of his generation.
A 2018 World Cup winner, the midfielder has long ranked among the highest-paid players in European football.
He chose a Gulfstream G280, an aircraft belonging to the high-performance super-midsize business jet category.
Valued at approximately €20 million, this model is capable of flying nearly 6,600 kilometers non-stop.
The G280 is renowned for its high speed, low fuel consumption compared to other aircraft in its class, and a fully customizable interior.
It offers distinct areas that allow for both working and resting during flights.
For a player accustomed to a packed schedule of international competitions and commercial commitments, this type of aircraft serves as a vital mobility tool.
6. Neymar Jr – Cessna Citation Sovereign
Neymar Jr is one of the most famous and highest-paid players of his generation.
Throughout his career, the Brazilian has amassed considerable wealth through his salaries, endorsement deals, and numerous investments. Despite this immense fortune, he did not opt for the largest private jet on the market.
Instead, he chose a Cessna Citation Sovereign, an aircraft renowned for its excellent balance of performance, range, and operating costs.
Valued at approximately €20 million, the jet can carry up to eight passengers in a luxurious cabin that offers all the comforts needed for long-haul travel.
Its range allows Neymar to easily travel between destinations in South America, Europe, and the Middle East. The former FC Barcelona and PSG player thus favors an aircraft perfectly suited to his lifestyle, without necessarily seeking out the largest model available.
7. Wayne Rooney – Dassault Falcon 900LX
Former Manchester United and England captain Wayne Rooney is also a fan of business aviation.
For his travels, the Englishman has opted for a Dassault Falcon 900LX, one of the highest-performing aircraft from the French manufacturer Dassault Aviation.
Capable of flying nearly 9,000 kilometers non-stop, this tri-jet is highly valued for its reliability, quiet cabin, and capacity to carry a dozen passengers.
The Falcon 900LX is frequently used by numerous heads of state and top corporate executives—a testament to its prestige.
Now working as a coach, Rooney continues to favor this type of aircraft for his professional travel.
8. Gareth Bale – Cessna Citation XLS+
Retired since 2023, Gareth Bale is now fully enjoying his new life, balancing time with his family, golf, and various personal projects.
During his career, the Welshman was among the highest-paid players in world football, particularly during his time at Real Madrid.
An aviation enthusiast, he owns a Cessna Citation XLS+, a mid-size jet highly valued for its versatility.
Valued at nearly €8 million, the aircraft can cover over 3,000 kilometers at speeds approaching 800 km/h.
Compact yet exceptionally comfortable, it is perfectly suited to an owner who wants to travel quickly without investing in a much larger aircraft.
9. Kaká – Embraer Phenom 100
Winner of the 2007 Ballon d’Or and a former star of AC Milan and Real Madrid, Kaká is also a private jet owner.
True to his Brazilian roots, the former international player chose an aircraft built by Embraer, the leader in South American business aviation.
His Phenom 100 is a light jet renowned for its elegance, fuel efficiency, and exceptional comfort.
With a range of approximately 2,000 kilometers, it is an ideal choice for regional trips or quick business travel.
Less flashy than the Gulfstream or Bombardier jets used by other stars, Kaká’s choice reflects an approach focused more on efficiency than ostentation.
10. Ronaldinho – Embraer Phenom 100
It is impossible to discuss the great legends of football without mentioning Ronaldinho.
A World Cup winner, Champions League victor, and Ballon d’Or recipient, the Brazilian continues to travel the globe to take part in exhibition matches, charity events, and commercial engagements.
Like Kaká, he owns an Embraer Phenom 100—an aircraft perfectly suited to his extensive travel.
Despite occasional rumors regarding his financial situation, Ronaldinho remains a highly sought-after figure worldwide.
His private jet allows him to accept these numerous invitations while traveling in optimal comfort.
Other football stars who also own a private jet
Beyond this top 10, several other major figures in football also use business aviation for their travel.
Karim Benzema
The former Real Madrid captain, now an Al-Ittihad player, is frequently associated with a Gulfstream G650—one of the most luxurious aircraft on the market.
Capable of flying nearly 14,000 kilometers non-stop, this jet offers exceptional comfort and allows for uninterrupted travel between Europe and the Middle East or the United States.
For a player who now divides his time between several continents, this type of aircraft represents a significant time-saver.
Samuel Eto’o
The former Cameroonian legend is also among the African figures most frequently associated with private aviation.
During his career, Samuel Eto’o became one of the highest-paid African athletes in history.
His name frequently comes up in connection with ownership of the Gulfstream G650, an aircraft that epitomizes the pinnacle of business aviation.
Now president of the Cameroonian Football Federation (FECAFOOT), Eto’o continues to travel extensively in connection with his duties.
