- Home >
- Soccer >
- FIFA World Cup >
- Cristiano Ronaldo Leaves the Door Open to Continue with Portugal After the 2026 FIFA World Cup
Cristiano Ronaldo Leaves the Door Open to Continue with Portugal After the 2026 FIFA World Cup
The Portugal captain admitted this was likely his final World Cup but stopped short of confirming the end of his international career.
Cristiano has not decided his international future
Portugal's elimination against Spain at the 2026 FIFA World Cup has raised one of the biggest questions in international football: was it Cristiano Ronaldo's final match for his national team?
Speaking after the game, the Portugal captain acknowledged that this was most likely the last World Cup of his career. However, he stopped short of announcing his retirement from international football, explaining that he wants time to reflect before making a final decision.
Cristiano added that he plans to discuss the matter with his family and those closest to him before determining the next step in his career.
The European Championship remains a possibility
While Ronaldo admitted that the 2026 tournament will likely be his final World Cup appearance, he made it clear that he has not ruled out continuing with Portugal in future competitions.
The veteran forward said he does not believe it would be appropriate to make such an important announcement immediately after a World Cup elimination, as he does not want the focus to shift away from the team.
With the next UEFA European Championship on the horizon, Ronaldo's international future remains undecided.
Ronaldo reflects on Portugal's elimination
The Portuguese captain also shared his thoughts on the defeat to Spain, which ended Portugal's World Cup campaign.
Ronaldo described the match as an evenly contested battle that was ultimately decided by small details. He also acknowledged Spain's quality and credited its opponent for capitalizing on its opportunities in a tightly contested encounter.
Despite the disappointment, he said Portugal left everything on the pitch throughout the match.
"I leave with a clear conscience"
Although saddened by the elimination, Ronaldo said he departs the tournament at peace with the effort he and his teammates gave during the competition.
The five-time Ballon d'Or winner reiterated that losing is always painful, but emphasized that he has no regrets because he gave everything for Portugal in what may have been his final World Cup appearance.
Attention will now turn to the decision Ronaldo makes in the coming months as the football world waits to learn whether one of the greatest international careers in history will continue.
