Coronavirus: Cristiano Ronaldo's reps refute reports that his hotels are temporarily converted into hospitals
UPDATE: A Portuguese luxury hotel owned by Juventus star Cristiano Ronaldo has denied reports that it will be temporarily converted into a hospital that will be used to treat coronavirus patients in the country. Read the updated report here.
The original story is below:
As the coronavirus spreads it tentacles in Europe, Juventus star Cristiano Ronaldo has decided to convert two luxury hotels he owns in Portugal into temporary hospitals, according to reports. The Portuguese professional footballer is the owner of a four-star hotel in his home island of Madiera ($200-a-night) and another in the Portuguese capital Lisbon, where the charges are $240-a-night.
Spanish newspaper Marca states that the football champion would be using these two properties as facilities to treat patients infected with coronavirus free of cost.
A few days ago, Ronaldo took to social media to express his concern over the ongoing health crisis. He wrote, “The world is going through a difficult time and demands the utmost care and attention from everyone. Today I am not speaking to you as a footballer, but as a son, as a father, as a human being aware of the latest events that are affecting the world.”
“It is important that we follow the recommendations of the WHO (World Health Organization) and those of governments on how to manage this situation. Protecting human lives is above any other interest. I want to send all my support to all those who have lost a loved one,” he added further.
He also used the platform to talk about his fellow player Daniele Rugani, after he was diagnosed positive for coronavirus. Cristiano himself has been in quarantine since last week following Daniele’s diagnosis, although the former was tested negative for the virus, which has claimed nearly 1500 lives in Italy. He's currently in isolation in Madeira.
“My solidarity for those who are fighting the virus, such as my partner Daniele Rugani, and all my support for the incredible work that medical professionals are doing by putting his life at risk to save those of others,” he said.
As of now, Portugal has confirmed 169 cases for COVID-19, but no deaths have been reported. The situation is much graver in neighboring Spain, with almost 6400 infected and 196 deaths.
Meanwhile, all the soccer matches in Italy and Portugal have come to a halt.