Cristiano Ronaldo has officially confirmed that the 2026 FIFA World Cup will mark the end of his illustrious international career, giving fans a clear timeline for his retirement from football. Speaking via video link at a Saudi forum, the Portuguese legend stated that the upcoming tournament hosted across the USA, Mexico, and Canada will be his last World Cup appearance, bringing an end to a record-breaking journey that has defined modern football.
Currently, Portugal leads Group F in the European qualifiers and could secure their place in the 2026 tournament with a win against the Republic of Ireland on November 13. If selected, the 2026 event will be Ronaldo’s sixth appearance on the World Cup stage — an unmatched milestone in football history.
Acknowledging that age is finally catching up, Ronaldo, who will turn 41 during the next World Cup, admitted that the time to step away from professional football is near. He stated that he expects to retire “in one or two years,” signaling that fans may only have a short time left to witness CR7 on the field.
“The 2026 World Cup will be my final one,” Ronaldo said. “I’ll be 41 by then, and I believe it will be the right moment.”
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner, who has scored over 950 career goals across club and international competitions, remains determined to end his international career on a high note. Despite missing the elusive World Cup trophy in his otherwise legendary career, Ronaldo’s focus and drive remain undiminished.
After departing Manchester United in 2022, Ronaldo joined Saudi Pro League club Al Nassr, where he continues to lead both on and off the pitch. Though Saudi Arabia is set to host the 2034 World Cup, Ronaldo made it clear that he will not participate as a player by then.
Reflecting on his legacy, Ronaldo stated in a previous interview that winning the World Cup wouldn’t define his greatness. “I don’t need a trophy to prove I’m one of the best in history,” he said, emphasizing that his accomplishments already speak for themselves.