Ronaldo Confirms That FIFA World Cup 2026 Will be His Last

Five-time Ballon d’Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo has officially confirmed that the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup will be his final appearance on the global stage. The legendary Portuguese forward told reporters that as he approaches his 41st birthday, the tournament will mark the end of his international career. Ronaldo, who has dominated the national team goal charts with 143 goals for Portugal national football team, described the decision as both logical and heartfelt. He emphasized that although he still feels fit and competitive, it’s time to begin the next chapter after more than 25 years in the sport at the highest level. 

“I feel very good in this moment. I score goals, I still feel quick and sharp, I’m enjoying my game in the national team,” said Ronaldo. However, he also made clear his earlier mention of retiring “soon” truly means within one or two years. 

The 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, will give Ronaldo a record-setting sixth appearance at the tournament—surpassing the previous mark held by German great Lothar Matthäus.

For Portugal, the road to the tournament is nearly secured, with the team requiring just two points from upcoming matches to lock in qualification. A successful campaign would not merely add another milestone to Ronaldo’s decorated career—it would serve as the fitting final chapter for a player who has redefined goal­scoring at the international level.

Ronaldo’s announcement doesn’t just mark the end of his journey on the international stage—it signals the closing of a remarkable era in football history.