There was one big question on the lips of football supporters across the globe when Cristiano Ronaldo was shown a straight red card in Portugal's recent loss against Ireland. How will it impact his 2026 World Cup campaign?
Despite a poor evening at the Aviva Stadium in early November, Portugal sailed their way to qualification for the USA, Canada and Mexico-hosted tournament. Ronaldo himself has said it will be his last dance on the biggest international stage, but will he be able to play in the opening games?
That was widely questioned when the 40-year-old was dismissed in the penultimate qualifying fixture for an elbow on Ireland defender Dara O'Shea. The red mist descended for the five-time Ballon d'Or winner, and he was sent for an early shower. FIFA have now made their final decision on the length of Ronaldo's suspension.
Cristiano Ronaldo Cleared For World Cup Opener
Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo warms up to face the Republic of Ireland.
According to the Record, Ronaldo's punishment for the moment of madness was nothing more than a one-match ban. That means he's already served his punishment as the Al-Nassr ace sat on the sidelines for his country's 9-1 win against Armenia.
It means Roberto Martinez will be able to call upon his main man for the first game of the World Cup next summer. He may be in the twilight of his career, but Ronaldo remains the talisman for his country, who are among the favourites to lift the iconic trophy.
Had FIFA interpreted Ronaldo's actions vs Ireland as 'violent conduct', he would've been forced to serve a three-game suspension. The governing body, however, didn't see it this way.
A statement from FIFA read:
"If Cristiano Ronaldo commits another infringement of a similar nature and gravity during the probationary period, the suspension set out in the disciplinary decision shall be deemed automatically revoked and the remaining two matches must be served immediately."
Cristiano Ronaldo on Final World Cup
cristiano ronaldo
The biggest prize that has always evaded Ronaldo during his trophy-laden career at the very top of world football, is arguably the biggest team accolade in the beautiful game. He has already confirmed the 2026 competition will be his final chance at lifting the World Cup. He said:
"Definitely, yes, [it will be my last World Cup] because I will be 41 years old.
"I feel very good in this moment. I score goals, I still feel quick and sharp, I'm enjoying my game in the national team."
One of the greatest footballers to ever grace the pitch, the Portuguese superstar even went as far as confirming he has at most two more years in the game before finally hanging up his boots.
"Let's be honest, when I mean soon [the end of his playing career] I mean probably one, two years.
"I'm enjoying the moment. But when I mean soon, it's really soon, because I give everything for football. I'm in the game for the last 25 years, I did everything."