FIFA World Cup 2026: Cristiano Ronaldo Confirms Sixth World Cup Will Be His Last
Cristiano Ronaldo, the 41-year-old captain of Portugal, has stated that the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup will be his last. The forward, who has played in six editions of the tournament, made the announcement during a press conference on the eve of Portugal's round of 16 match against Spain.
Speaking to reporters at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, Ronaldo said, 'I want to enjoy what will be my last World Cup to the fullest. Hopefully, tomorrow won't be my last match.' The Portuguese star had previously made similar remarks in a television interview late last year after Portugal won the UEFA Nations League.
Ronaldo, who has scored 11 goals in World Cup finals appearances, has had a storied career with clubs including Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus. His World Cup debut was in 2006, and he has since led Portugal to a semifinal in that year and a quarterfinal appearance in 2022. In the 2026 tournament, he scored the equaliser in Portugal's 2-1 victory over Croatia in the round of 32.
During the press conference, Ronaldo reflected on his legacy, saying, 'What I have done throughout my career is to adjust to the nuances of age, knowing that I'm not the player I used to be. But one thing I can understand very clearly is nothing has changed because I can still score a goal.' He also expressed gratitude for his career, stating, 'God was so generous toward me. He gave me everything I never expected to win, especially at the national team.'
Portugal faces Spain in the round of 16, aiming for a second consecutive quarterfinal appearance. The match will be played on July 6, 2026. Ronaldo's retirement from international football has been speculated for years, and this confirmation brings clarity to his future plans.
