Portuguese football icon Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed that the 2026 FIFA World Cup will mark his final appearance on the global stage, signaling the end of an extraordinary era.
Speaking via video link at a Saudi forum on Tuesday, November 11, the 40-year-old Al Nassr forward—with over 950 career goals—revealed he plans to retire from football within the next one or two years.
“Definitely, yes,” Ronaldo said when asked if the 2026 World Cup would be his last. “I’ll be 41 by then, and I think it will be the right moment.” The five-time Ballon d’Or winner, who joined Al Nassr in 2023 after leaving Manchester United, aims to make one final mark by leading Portugal to victory in what would be his sixth World Cup appearance.
Portugal can secure qualification for the 2026 World Cup—set to be hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico—with a win against Ireland on Thursday. Ronaldo’s announcement comes as Saudi Arabia, his current football home, prepares to host the 2034 World Cup, reflecting the country’s massive investment in global sports.
