Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo has claimed that the 2026 World Cup will be his last tournament.
The 40-year-old also revealed that he plans to retire from football in “one or two years.”
When asked during a video link at a Saudi-hosted global forum on tourism and investment whether the 2026 World Cup would be his final appearance, he replied,
“Definitely, yes. I’m going to be 41 years old, and I think it will be the moment.”
Ronaldo, speaking with his characteristic humour, added,
“Soon for me means in 10 years… No, I’m joking. I’m really enjoying the moment right now.
As you know, in football, when you reach a certain age, you count the months very quickly.
“I feel very good at this moment. I score goals, and I still feel quick and sharp.
I’m enjoying my game in the national team. But of course, let’s be honest. What I mean by soon is probably one or two years.”
With Portugal on the verge of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, Ronaldo confirmed that the tournament will mark his final World Cup appearance.
Reflecting on his career since joining Saudi Arabia’s Al Nassr in 2023, Ronaldo elaborated on his earlier comments about retiring “soon”:
