Cristiano Ronaldo Nears End of Portugal Career Ahead of 2026 World Cup

Cristiano Ronaldo, the Portuguese superstar, has officially confirmed that the 2026 World Cup will be his final international tournament. The 40-year-old forward announced during a Saudi forum that he expects to retire from international football “really soon,” with the upcoming 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico marking the end of an extraordinary career. Ronaldo’s legacy in international football is unmatched, and his farewell tournament promises to be historic.

Ronaldo has featured in five previous World Cups, starting with the 2006 edition in Germany. In Qatar 2022, he became the first male player to score in five World Cups, a record he will aim to extend to six in the 2026 World Cup. With his 41st birthday approaching, Ronaldo is set to conclude his international journey while still performing at an elite level for Al-Nassr and Portugal.

The Portuguese captain remains central to his national team, having scored five goals in the ongoing 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign. Portugal currently leads Group F and a win over the Republic of Ireland would officially secure their place in the 2026 finals. Despite his age, Ronaldo continues to deliver remarkable performances, maintaining his reputation as one of the most prolific goal scorers in football history.

Career Overview and 2026 World Cup Prospects

• Player Name: Cristiano Ronaldo
• National Team: Portugal
• Current Club: Al-Nassr
• Age: 40 (turning 41 in February 2026)
• World Cup Appearances: 5 (2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022)
• 2026 World Cup: Confirmed as final international tournament
• International Goals: 143 in 225 appearances (record)
• Key Achievements: 5 Ballon d’Ors, 5 Champions League titles, Euro 2016 winner, UEFA Nations League 2019 & 2025 winner
• Current Form: 9 goals in 8 matches for Al-Nassr; 5 goals in World Cup qualifying

Ronaldo’s confirmation about the 2026 World Cup highlights his determination to leave the international stage at the peak of his abilities. He emphasized, “I feel very good at this moment; I score goals, I still feel quick and sharp. I’m enjoying my game in the national team, and all that stuff. When I say soon, it’s probably one or two more years in the game.”

While the World Cup trophy has eluded him, Ronaldo’s international career is decorated with milestones that few players can match. He led Portugal to Euro 2016 glory and played a pivotal role in their UEFA Nations League victories in 2019 and 2025. The 2026 World Cup will serve as the final stage to cement his legacy in the sport.

Achievements Leading to the 2026 World Cup

• First male footballer to score in five World Cups.
• 143 international goals, making him the all-time leading scorer in men’s international football.
• Record-breaking career across multiple leagues and clubs, including Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus, and Al-Nassr.
• Aims to reach 1,000 career goals, with the 2026 World Cup offering an opportunity to add to this tally.

Ronaldo continues to play a vital role in Al-Nassr’s campaign, scoring nine goals in eight matches in the Saudi Pro League. He remains one of the most marketable and influential footballers globally, becoming the first footballer listed as a billionaire by Bloomberg’s Billionaires Index.

Ronaldo’s Message Ahead of the 2026 World Cup

Speaking about his future, Ronaldo said, “Definitely, yes, the 2026 World Cup will be my last. I’m going to be 41 years old, and I think it will be the moment. I’m enjoying the moments, but when I say soon, it’s really soon because I give everything for football. I’ve been in the game for the last 25 years, and I’m really proud. Let’s enjoy the moment and live the moment.”

Cristiano Ronaldo’s impending retirement after the 2026 World Cup will mark the end of an era in international football. His incredible longevity, consistency, and dedication have set benchmarks that will be remembered for decades. Fans around the world eagerly await to witness his final performance on the global stage, as he attempts to lift the trophy that has eluded him throughout his illustrious career.

The 2026 World Cup, hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, promises to be a historic event not only because of the expanded 48-team format but also as the final farewell for one of football’s greatest icons. Ronaldo’s participation will inspire both teammates and young footballers, leaving a legacy of excellence, determination, and unmatched passion for the beautiful game.