World football star Cristiano Ronaldo is teaming up with US-based health club chain Crunch Fitness to launch CR7 gyms.

The former Manchester United winger will open his first club in Madrid, Spain before expanding further afield.

Speaking about the gym, Ronaldo, who now plays for Real Madrid, said: "I am very excited about this incredible CR7 Fitness Club venture with Crunch Fitness. We are able to offer great health and fitness to everyone at a reasonable price and members can use the same fitness equipment that I use.”

Franchise owners will be able to establish their own Crunch gym in Spain where CR7 members will be able to experience “cutting-edge” equipment, group fitness programmes, advice from personal trainers and nutrition guidance.

The clubs will target people of all fitness levels, from beginners to enthusiasts.

Ben Midgley, Crunch Franchise chief executive officer, said. “It's been an absolute honour to work with Cristiano Ronaldo and his team. We're very excited to build something truly incredible, particularly knowing that we will be able to impact the lives and fitness journeys of thousands of new people as we continue to grow.”

Doug Raetz, managing member of Spain Fitness Ventures, said: “Working together to expand fitness clubs across Spain with partners who bring the level of expertise and motivation that CR7 and Crunch bring has been extremely rewarding. We look forward to building a long standing and successful fitness brand throughout Spain.”

Headquartered in New York City, Crunch has more than 800,000 members with over 180 gyms worldwide.