Football legend Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed that the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be his final appearance on the global stage.
Speaking via video link at a Saudi forum on Tuesday, the 40-year-old forward said that he plans to retire from football within the next one or two years, marking the end of his illustrious career.
“Definitely, yes,” Ronaldo said when asked if the 2026 World Cup would be his last. “I’m gonna be 41 years old, and I think it will be the moment.”
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner, who currently plays for Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, also elaborated on recent comments in which he hinted that retirement was near. “Let’s be honest — when I say soon, it’s probably one or two years I’ll still be at the game,” he said.
Ronaldo, who has scored over 950 career goals for club and country, is targeting his sixth World Cup appearance. His closest attempt at winning the tournament came in 2006, when Portugal reached the semi-finals but were defeated by France.
Portugal have not yet qualified for the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. However, they could secure their place if they defeat Ireland in their next qualifier.
Ronaldo joined Al Nassr in 2023 after leaving Manchester United for the second time in late 2022. His move to Saudi Arabia marked the beginning of a trend that saw several high-profile footballers head to the Middle East toward the end of their careers.
