Iran's embassy in Madrid has denied reports that football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo is facing 99 lashes as punishment for adultery in the country.
According to multiple Iranian media outlets, Ronaldo is facing several lawsuits in Iran after the Al-Nassr ace hugged and kissed artist Fatima Hamimi on the cheek to thank her for a gift.
It has been widely reported that Ronaldo is facing 99 lashes as punishment for touching an unmarried woman while in a relationship, which is considered adultery under Iranian law.
The 38-year-old has been with his girlfriend, Georgina Rodriguez, since 2016, and they have two children.
Iran's embassy has released a statement opposing the claims regarding Ronaldo.
“We strongly deny the issuance of any court ruling against any international athlete in Iran,” the statement read.
“It is a matter of concern that the publication of such unfounded news could overshadow crimes against humanity and war crimes against the oppressed Palestinian nation.
“It should be noted that Cristiano Ronaldo traveled to Iran on September 18 and 19 to play in an official soccer match and was very well received by the people and the authorities. His sincere and humane meeting with Fatemeh Hamami was also praised and admired by both the people and the country's sports authorities.”
Video of the pair's meeting shared by Al-Nassr's official Instagram account shows Ronaldo and Hamimi posing for a photo when Al-Nassr traveled to Tehran to play Persepolis for an Asian Champions League group-stage match.
Hamimi, who is reportedly 85 percent paralyzed and paints with her feet, was one of many fans who showered Ronaldo with gifts.
It's understood Ronaldo hugged and kissed Hamimi on the cheek to thank her for her support.
Ronaldo, who signed a two-and-a-half-year deal with the Saudi Arabian club worth a reported $75 million per year, could be forgiven by a judge if “the acts are not punishable or Ronaldo shows remorse, “Spanish newspaper Marca reports.
Al-Nassr will not play in Iran again during the tournament group stage, but could if both teams make it to the knockout stages.
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