It was an addiction gene that ran in the family, with their late father Jose Dinis Aveiro also a recovering alcoholic.
But thanks to Cristiano’s support, Hugo, 42, is now sober and managing the Ballon d’Or winner’s CR7 museum in Madeira, Portugal.
They are closer than ever, go on holidays together, while Ronaldo is godfather to Hugo’s son.
Hugo was also part of Cristiano’s entourage, boarding a private plane to head to the 2017 Ballon d’Or ceremony.
However, it all unfolded publicly at the Champions League Final in 2014, when Ronaldo stole the show in a 4-1 win over rivals Atletico Madrid at the Estadio da Luz.
An emotional hug, caught on camera, between the pair celebrating Real’s crowning glory reportedly culminated in a pact.
Cristiano told Hugo now he’s fulfilled his part of the bargain and won a Champions League for Los Blancos, it’s his brother’s turn to stop boozing.
It was a tough demand on a man who had spent most of his adult life struggling with substances.
But it was a wish Hugo has since maintained, blessed by Cristiano’s love and support.
And as anyone in recovery will tell you, you’re always an addict and every day is a fight.
Which makes Hugo’s journey, with the aid of his little bro, a remarkable one all the same.
