Karim Benzema’s story inspires millions because he always proved his critics wrong. His sharp instincts, cold finishing, and ability to control games turned him into one of football’s most feared strikers.
From Lyon to Real Madrid and later Al-Ittihad, Benzema constantly evolved his game. Moreover, his leadership, vision, and consistency helped him build one of the most successful careers of this generation.
Below, you’ll find Karim Benzema’s full personal details, biography, early and professional career, relationship status, last 5 game stats, career earnings, contract details, endorsements, records, achievements, and more.
Last 5 Games Stats
| Date | Oppone | Result | Goals | Assists | 🟨 | 🟥 | Points | Compet | League |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12 Nov 2024 | Al-Nassr | 1–1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 7.8 | Saudi Pro League | SPL |
| 05 Nov 2024 | Al-Hilal | 0–3 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 6.1 | Saudi Pro League | SPL |
| 24 Oct 2024 | Uzbek Club | 2–0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 8.2 | AFC Champions League | ACL |
| 14 Oct 2024 | Mali | 2–2 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 7.0 | Friendly | International |
| 02 Oct 2024 | Al-Taawoun | 3–1 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 8.7 | Saudi Pro League | SPL |
Karim Benzema’s Biography
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Karim Mostafa Benzema |
| Nickname | KB9, Benzegoal |
| Birth Date | 19 December 1987 |
| Birthplace | Lyon, France |
| Height | 1.85 m (6 ft 1 in) |
| Weight | 81 kg (approx.) |
| College | Not attended; focused on football academies |
| Religion | Islam |
| Nationality | French |
| Turned Pro | 2004 (Olympique Lyonnais) |
| Best Performance | 2021–22 season (44 goals for Real Madrid) |
| Salary | Approx. $110 million per year (Al-Ittihad) |
| Current Contract | 3-year deal with Al-Ittihad until 2026 |
| Current Net Worth | Approx. $250 million |
| Relationship Status | Married |
| Spouse | Cora Gauthier |
| Children | 2 (Ibrahim & Mélia) |
| Car Collection | Bugatti Veyron, Ferrari 458 Spider, Lamborghini Aventador, Mercedes G-Wagon |
| Position | Striker |
| Top Brands He Uses | Adidas, Rolex, Mercedes, Puma fragrances |
| Hobbies | Fitness, watching boxing, traveling, fashion |
| Instagram Profile | @karimbenzema |
His parents, Hafid and Wahida, originally came from Algeria, and they raised him in a close-knit family alongside his 8 siblings. Benzema grew up in a modest neighborhood, and his early life stayed rooted in discipline, family values, and strong cultural traditions.
By joining the Bron Terraillon SC youth academy, he developed impressive control, awareness, and finishing. His steady growth attracted Olympique Lyon, who shaped him into a young star with huge potential.
Early Career
Benzema joined the Lyon academy at age 9 and quickly rose through the youth system. Coaches noticed his calm finishing and high intelligence on the field. By 2004, he earned his professional debut.
He helped Lyon dominate Ligue 1 during his early years, scoring smoothly and assisting with maturity far beyond his age. His sharp technique and strong mindset made him one of the best young players in France.
Professional Career
Benzema’s move to Real Madrid in 2009 changed his life permanently. He began as a developing striker but soon turned into one of Madrid’s most reliable match-winners.
Playing alongside stars like Ronaldo, Modrić, and Bale sharpened his playmaking and finishing.
His peak arrived in the 2021–22 season when he scored 44 goals and carried Madrid to the Champions League title. After 14 years, he left as a club legend with 354 goals. In 2023, he joined Al-Ittihad under a historic contract.
Spouse
Karim Benzema is married to Cora Gauthier, a French model. They share 2 children: Ibrahim, born in 2017, and Mélia, born earlier from a previous relationship.
Karim Benzema’s Net Worth Details
As of 2025, Karim Benzema has an estimated net worth stands around $250 million. Much of his wealth comes from his massive salary at Al-Ittihad, where he earns approximately $110 million annually, including bonuses and commercial deals.
His brand endorsements, investments in fashion, real estate properties in Madrid and Dubai, and luxury car collection boost his financial portfolio even more.
Contract
Benzema signed a 3-year contract with Al-Ittihad in June 2023, valid until June 2026.
Key highlights include:
- Annual income estimated at $110 million, including performance bonuses
- Captaincy role in the squad
- Commercial opportunities under Saudi Pro League sponsorship agreements
Career Earnings
| Year | Club / Source | Earnings (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| 2010–2015 | Real Madrid Salary | $40 million |
| 2015–2020 | Real Madrid Salary | $70 million |
| 2020–2023 | Real Madrid Salary | $90 million |
| 2023 | Signing Bonus (Al-Ittihad) | $25 million |
| 2023–2025 | Al-Ittihad Salary | $220 million |
| 2010–2025 | Endorsements | $40+ million |
| Total Estimated Career Earnings | — | $485+ million |
Endorsements
- Adidas
- SFR
- Hyundai (past)
- EA Sports
- Bwin
Career Stats
International Career Records
| Date | Oppone | Result | Goals | Assists | 🟨 | 🟥 | Points | Compet | World Cup |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 23 Jun 2014 | Switzerland | 5–2 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 8.9 | World Cup | 2014 |
| 15 Jun 2014 | Honduras | 3–0 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 9.1 | World Cup | 2014 |
| 08 Sep 2015 | Serbia | 2–1 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 7.5 | Friendly | — |
| 11 Oct 2021 | Spain | 2–1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 7.8 | Nations League Final | — |
| 20 Jun 2021 | Portugal | 2–2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 8.3 | Euro 2020 | — |
Club Career Stats
| Date | Opponen | Result | Goals | Assists | 🟨 | 🟥 | Points | Competit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12 Apr 2022 | Chelsea | 3–1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 8.7 | Champions League |
| 06 Apr 2022 | Chelsea | 3–1 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 9.6 | Champions League |
| 09 Mar 2022 | PSG | 3–1 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 9.8 | Champions League |
| 20 Feb 2022 | Alavés | 3–0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 8.2 | La Liga |
| 10 Jan 2023 | Valencia | 2–1 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 8.0 | La Liga |
Major Career Achievements
- Ballon d’Or Winner (2022)
This stands as the biggest recognition of his career. His unbelievable season with Real Madrid, including Champions League heroics, earned him the crown. - UEFA Champions League Dominance (5 Titles)
Benzema played a key role in one of the greatest eras in football history. His goals, assists, and leadership helped Madrid secure multiple European crowns. - Real Madrid’s Second All-Time Top Scorer
With 354+ goals, he sits only behind Cristiano Ronaldo. His consistency makes this record extraordinary. - La Liga Championships (4 Titles)
Benzema remained steady across every season and stepped up in crucial matches. - UEFA Nations League Winner (2021)
His comeback to the French national team ended beautifully with a major trophy. - Most Goals in a Champions League Knockout Stage (2022)
His hat-tricks against PSG and Chelsea became legendary moments. - Lyon Legend Status
He won multiple Ligue 1 titles and emerged as a rising star before joining Madrid. - Saudi Pro League Icon
His move to Al-Ittihad boosted the global profile of the league.
FAQs About Karim Benzema
What makes Karim Benzema such a unique striker?
Karim Benzema combines finishing, playmaking, intelligence, and movement better than most forwards. He creates chances, drops deep to build plays, and reads the game with incredible clarity. This balance makes him effective even when he isn’t scoring.
How many goals has Benzema scored in his career?
Across Lyon, Real Madrid, Al-Ittihad, and France, he has scored over 450 professional goals. His biggest numbers came at Real Madrid, where he became their second-highest scorer.
Why did Benzema leave Real Madrid?
He chose a new challenge after spending 14 years in Madrid. The historic contract from Al-Ittihad and the opportunity to experience a new culture influenced his decision. He left as a legend with complete respect.
What is Benzema’s playing style?
He plays as a technical striker with smooth link-up play. He combines well with wingers, creates space for teammates, and scores goals with intelligent positioning.
How rich is Karim Benzema in 2025?
As of 2025, Karim Benzema has an estimated net worth stands around $250 million. Much of his wealth comes from his massive salary at Al-Ittihad, where he earns approximately $110 million annually, including bonuses and commercial deals.
What was Benzema’s best season?
Most fans rate the 2021–22 season as his absolute peak. He scored 44 goals and carried Real Madrid to La Liga and Champions League titles.
Who is Benzema married to?
He is married to Cora Gauthier. The couple maintains a private life and focuses on raising their children peacefully.
What brands does Benzema endorse?
He has collaborated with Adidas, SFR, EA Sports, and several lifestyle and luxury companies. His style and fashion influence make him popular among top brands.
Does Benzema still play for the France national team?
He was active during the 2021–2022 period after his return. His national team involvement later reduced, and he focused more on club football.
What is Benzema’s biggest football achievement?
Winning the Ballon d’Or in 2022 is widely considered his greatest individual achievement.
