Cristiano Ronaldo’s Hotel Becomes Shelter, Morocco Players Donate Blood Following Earthquake
In a heartrending turn of events, a catastrophic 6.8-magnitude earthquake has struck the High Atlas region of Morocco. The shocking aftermath of the tragedy is staggering. The death toll has risen to over 2,122 individuals, and another 2,421 have been injured. Furthermore, countless are missing, and thousands have been rendered homeless, looking for shelter and safety.
The devastation caused by the earthquake has left communities shattered. Homes, streets, and landmarks that once stood tall now lie in ruins. Amid this backdrop of despair, stories of hope and solidarity emerge. One of the most prominent among these is the gesture by global football icon, Cristiano Ronaldo.
Ronaldo’s luxury hotel in Marrakesh, known as the Pestana CR7 Marrakesh, has become a beacon of hope for many survivors. This upscale establishment, which boasts 174 rooms, has opened its doors wide to welcome those displaced by the earthquake. Under normal circumstances, guests would pay approximately £130 a night to experience the beauty and comfort of this four-star hotel. Today, it stands as a testament to Ronaldo’s empathy and commitment to humanitarian causes.
The city of Marrakesh, particularly its historic old town, witnessed significant destruction. Ancient buildings, some of which have stood for centuries, have crumbled. The narrow and once-bustling streets are now filled with debris, making them nearly impassable. Yet, amidst these ruins, the town square and Ronaldo’s hotel have transformed into pivotal relief points, providing shelter, food, and a semblance of normalcy in these trying times.
But Ronaldo isn’t the only figure from the world of football making a difference. The national football team of Morocco has stepped forward in this time of crisis. Several of its players, exemplified by Paris Saint-Germain’s star player, Achraf Hakimi, have rolled up their sleeves to donate blood. Their commitment extends beyond the football field, as they rally to support their countrymen in a time of dire need.
The earthquake’s profound impact on Morocco’s landscape and psyche led to the cancellation of the national team’s anticipated match against Liberia, which was part of the African Cup of Nations qualifier. It serves as a somber reminder that some events transcend sport.
Other international football legends have also reached out in support. Lionel Messi, an icon in his own right, took to social media to express his condolences. Through an Instagram post, Messi wrote: “My condolences to all the families of the victims of the earthquake in Morocco and all the strength for the injured and the people who were affected by the terrible catastrophe.”
In a nationwide response to the calamity, King Mohammed VI of Morocco has declared three days of mourning. His call to action urges all who can to provide aid, resources, and assistance to those affected by the quake. This marks the gravest seismic activity the nation has seen since the devastating earthquake of 1960, which claimed up to 15,000 lives.
The breadth of this earthquake’s impact was vast. Even though the epicenter was located in the mountains of High Atlas, the tremors were felt far and wide, extending over 200 miles away to the capital city of Rabat.
In this tragedy, the combined efforts of individuals, communities, and nations demonstrate the power of unity in the face of adversity. It underscores the message that when humanity comes together, even the harshest of circumstances can be overcome.