Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed that the 2026 World Cup will be his last appearance on football’s biggest stage. The 40-year-old Portuguese captain, now preparing for his sixth World Cup, made the declaration during a recent media appearance, saying “definitely, yes” when asked if next year’s edition would mark the end of his World Cup journey.
Ronaldo, who has spent more than two decades at the highest level — playing for clubs such as Sporting CP, Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus and currently Al-Nassr — said he expects to retire from football “in one or two years.” The timing aligns with his intention to make 2026 a final bow in a career that has already etched his name into the history books.
The Portuguese star will be 41 by the time the tournament kicks off in North America. If Portugal qualify — with their campaign underway and qualification within reach — Ronaldo could set several new records on his farewell appearance. A sixth World Cup would extend his own record for most tournaments played, and he could become the first male player to score across six World Cups, should he find the net next summer.
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Despite the looming farewell, Ronaldo emphasized that he remains motivated and sharp, currently playing for Al-Nassr and contributing goals — indicating that, at least for now, his ambition and fitness remain intact. He described his upcoming World Cup as “the moment” to say goodbye on his own terms.
His decision signals the end of an era for Portugal and global football. Whether as a skipper, a record-breaker, or a veteran presence, Ronaldo’s final World Cup could offer one last chapter to a storied career filled with trophies, goals, and unforgettable performances. For fans worldwide, 2026 now carries a heavy sense of anticipation — not just for what Portugal might achieve, but for the final World Cup act of one of football’s most iconic figures.