In an emotional announcement, Portugal‘s Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed a major milestone. The beloved player shared that the FIFA 2026 World Cup will be his last, confirming what fans feared most. After countless records and nearly two decades of leading his nation on the world stage, the news of his retirement marks the end of an era for fans worldwide.
Cristiano Ronaldo confirms final World Cup and addresses retirement
With Portugal set to meet Spain in Monday’s Round of 16 in Arlington, Texas, Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed that FIFA 2026 will be his final World Cup. The remark underscored that the Portuguese forward is approaching the end of his storied career.
Now 41, Ronaldo is playing in his sixth World Cup after appearing in 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018 and 2022. His goal against Uzbekistan in the group stage saw him become the first player to find the net in six separate World Cup tournaments.
Even in his latest World Cup match, Ronaldo showed that he still delivers. In the Round of 32 against Croatia last Friday, the veteran striker netted a penalty, with Goncalo Ramos’ extra-time header sending Portugal through.
Ronaldo used Sunday’s pre-match news conference to confirm that he’s stepping away after this tournament. “It’s about enjoying it as much as possible,” he said, per ESPN. “This will be my last World Cup, but let’s hope tomorrow isn’t my last game.”
He added, “The day will come [when I retire from international football]. But I’ll be honest. Whatever happens tomorrow, Cristiano will leave with a clear conscience, not 100%, but 1000%. Because I’ve given everything in football. I don’t need it, I have a good life, but it’s about passion. I play football because I love it… You have to enjoy every day. And I’ve scored three goals [at this World Cup], I’m not doing too badly, right?”
“I want to enjoy it as much as possible, because it will be my last World Cup. But I hope that tomorrow won’t be my last game in the World Cup,” Ronaldo concluded.
Originally reported by Sibanee Gogoi on Mandatory.
