Cristiano Ronaldo confirmed that the FIFA World Cup 2026 will mark his final appearance on football’s biggest stage.
The Portuguese superstar, who will be 41 during the tournament, declared that the next edition will close his remarkable journey in international football.
Ronaldo has already scored more than 950 goals across club and international competitions. He explained that he plans to retire from the sport within “one or two years.” Speaking at a Saudi forum by video link, he said, “Definitely, yes. I’m gonna be 41 years old, and I think it will be the moment.”
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner began his stint at Saudi Arabia’s Al Nassr in 2023. He continued to play at the highest level while preparing for the end of his career. He elaborated on earlier remarks about retirement, noting, “When I mean soon, it’s probably one or two years, I’ll still be at the game.”
Ronaldo now targets a sixth World Cup appearance. He came closest to winning the trophy in 2006, when Portugal lost to France in the semifinals. Portugal has yet to secure qualification for the 2026 tournament in the USA, Canada, and Mexico, but the team can book its place by defeating Ireland on Thursday.
After leaving Manchester United for the second time in late 2022, Ronaldo joined Al Nassr, a move that inspired several late-career stars to head to Saudi Arabia. The kingdom, which invests heavily in sports and entertainment as part of its economic diversification plan, will also host the 2034 World Cup.
Ronaldo’s announcement signals the approaching end of one of football’s greatest careers, while fans worldwide prepare to witness his final World Cup chapter.
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