Ronaldo’s Suspension Reduced Ahead of World Cup 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo has achieved an impressive milestone by scoring a record 143 goals for Portugal.

Despite receiving a red card during a recent qualifier against the Republic of Ireland, Ronaldo will be eligible to play in Portugal’s opening match at next summer’s World Cup finals.

The 40-year-old forward was sent off for violent conduct after elbowing Dara O’Shea in the back during Portugal’s 2-0 defeat earlier this month. Although such conduct typically incurs a three-match ban, Ronaldo’s suspension has been mitigated, with the second and third matches postponed for a year.

Sources from BBC Sport indicate that this decision was influenced by the fact that this incident marked his first red card in a remarkable 226 international appearances.

Ronaldo missed the match against Armenia on November 16 and will therefore not be absent for any of Portugal’s games in the United States next summer.

A statement from FIFA clarified that should Ronaldo commit another offense of similar nature during the probationary period, the initial suspension would be reinstated, requiring him to serve the remaining matches immediately.

During the qualifying campaign, Ronaldo netted five goals, contributing significantly to Portugal’s success in winning Group F, thereby securing their spot in a seventh consecutive World Cup.

The 48 participating teams will soon learn their group placements during a live draw broadcast on the BBC, scheduled for Friday, December 5.