Ronaldo ‘honoured’ by airport

Cristiano Ronaldo has spoken of his honour and responsibility after having an airport in his hometown of Madeira named after him.

The airport is now named the "Aeroporto Internacional da Madeira, Cristiano Ronaldo" in a decision made by local regional government chief Miguel Albuquerque after the Real Madrid star captained his country to the European Championships title last year.

"Thank you for being here in my honour," Ronaldo is quoted by O Jogo as saying at the unveiling of the airport and a (questionably accurate) bust.  

"To see my name given to this airport is something very special, everyone knows that I am proud of my land and my country.

"I thank a lot the president of the regional government, who had the courage and strength to do this. My friend Miguel Albuquerque, I never asked for this, but I am very happy and honoured.

"I know that there were some people who did not agree, but I am not a hypocrite and I accept that some of those are here at this moment. That is all OK, we are all free, we live in a democracy and everyone has the right to their own opinion.

“I always prefer for those who have a position to say it openly, and not hide behind someone who speaks for them.

"I know the responsibility I have. I will always try to dignify Portugal and especially Madeira with dedication and a spirit of sacrifice and passion."

Tags Cristiano Ronaldo Portugal
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