Cristiano Ronaldo has written a letter of support for college student Ronald Gjoka, who invaded the pitch to hug him during Real Madrid's friendly with Chelsea in August.
Gjoka, 19, wearing a Madrid shirt personalised with "Ronaldo 7", was overcome by his hero's presence and burst onto the field of play at Miami's Sun Life Stadium to embrace Ronaldo. The student's actions earned him two days in jail and charges of trespassing and disorderly conduct.
But Ronaldo wants the charges dismissed and wrote to the Miami-Dade state attorney's office on behalf of the Albanian-born Canadian.
Ronaldo and Gjoka hug in August
The letter, obtained by the Miami Herald reads:
"My name is Cristiano Ronaldo, and I play football (soccer) for Real Madrid. I was playing at Sun Life Stadium last month when a fan entered the field. His name is Ronald Gjoka, a young college student. We hugged, and we spoke for a while, until security arrived to escort him off the field. He was not aggressive or violent in ANY way. In addition, he did not resist security or police in any possible way.
"I am concerned because I understand he may face potential problems with immigration and with his college if the criminal charges against him are not dismissed. I understand your position and the importance of enforcing rules and laws. However, I respectfully request that you and your office reconsider this decision and dismiss the two criminal charges this young man faces. Sincerely, Cristiano Ronaldo."
However, the case against Gjoka is scheduled to take place in court on Monday.