Portugal icon confirms 2026 will be his final World Cup, hoping the clash with Spain won’t mark his final appearance.
Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed that the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the final tournament of his illustrious international career, saying he intends to savour every remaining moment as Portugal prepare for a blockbuster Round of 16 clash against Spain.
Speaking at a rare pre-match press conference in Arlington, Texas, on Sunday, the 41-year-old Portugal captain ended months of speculation by acknowledging that his record sixth World Cup will also be his last.
“I want to enjoy what will be my last World Cup to the fullest,” Ronaldo said. “Hopefully tomorrow won’t be my last match.”
After initially avoiding questions about retirement, Ronaldo later provided a clear and definitive response.
Portugal will take on neighbouring rivals Spain in Dallas on Monday, with a place in the World Cup quarterfinals on the line.
The clash brings together two of Europe’s traditional football heavyweights, with Spain arriving as one of the tournament favourites after an impressive run through the knockout stages.
Despite his age, Ronaldo has produced one of his strongest World Cup campaigns to date.
Six different FIFA World Cups
He has scored three goals in the tournament, including his first-ever World Cup knockout-stage goal — a penalty in Portugal’s dramatic 2-1 win over Croatia in the Round of 32.
Earlier in the competition, he became the first player in football history to score in six separate FIFA World Cups, adding another milestone to a career defined by longevity at the highest level.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner insisted that winning the World Cup would not define his legacy, saying he has already achieved everything he set out to accomplish at both club and international level.
“Whatever happens tomorrow, I will leave with a clear conscience — not 100%, but 1000% — because I’ve given everything to football,” Ronaldo said.
Ronaldo made his World Cup debut in 2006 and has since featured in every edition of the tournament — 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022 and 2026.
He has accumulated 232 international caps and a men’s record 146 goals for Portugal, leading his country to its first major trophy at UEFA Euro 2016 and later lifting the UEFA Nations League in 2019 and 2025.
His announcement also confirms that he will not participate in the 2030 FIFA World Cup, despite Portugal co-hosting the tournament alongside Spain and Morocco.
The 2026 edition will therefore stand as the final chapter in one of football’s most decorated international careers.
Ronaldo’s focus now shifts to prolonging his farewell.
Ahead of a potential final World Cup appearance against Spain, the Portuguese icon said he continues to be motivated by the same passion that has driven him for over two decades.
“Let’s hope tomorrow isn’t my last game.”
