Cristiano Ronaldo Confirms Retirement: 2026 FIFA World Cup Will Be His Last

The 40-year-old Portuguese icon, with over 950 career goals and a record 143 international strikes, says he will retire “soon,” marking an end to one of football’s most legendary eras.

Portuguese football legend Cristiano Ronaldo has officially confirmed that the FIFA World Cup 2026 will be his final appearance on football’s biggest stage. Speaking via video link at a Saudi-hosted global summit on tourism and investment, the 40-year-old forward revealed that he plans to retire from professional football within the next one or two years — ending a career spanning more than 25 years at the top of the game.

“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 next edition of the World Cup, to be held across Canada, Mexico, and the United States, would be Ronaldo’s sixth appearance in the quadrennial (meaning once every four years) tournament — a record for any player. Despite his many accolades, the World Cup trophy remains one of the few major titles missing from his glittering career.

A Record-Breaking Career

Since making his senior debut for Portugal in 2003, Ronaldo has amassed 143 goals in 225 international appearances, both records in men’s international football. Across his club and country career, he has scored more than 950 goals, edging closer to the elusive 1,000-goal milestone — a feat no professional footballer has ever achieved.

Ronaldo first burst onto the global scene as a teenager at Sporting Lisbon in 2002, before becoming a global superstar at Manchester United, where he won four Premier League titles and a Champions League trophy. His record-breaking transfer to Real Madrid in 2009 turned him into the club’s all-time leading scorer, with 450 goals and four Champions League titles, including three consecutive wins. He later enjoyed success at Juventus, clinching two Serie A titles, before joining Saudi Arabia’s Al Nassr in 2023.

Ronaldo’s move to Al Nassr came after his second departure from Manchester United in 2022. His arrival in Saudi Arabia marked the beginning of a wave of high-profile transfers of veteran footballers to the Saudi Pro League, as part of the kingdom’s effort to diversify its economy through sports and entertainment investments.

Saudi Arabia, notably, was also awarded hosting rights for the 2034 World Cup, underlining its growing influence in global football.

Eyeing One Last Glory

Ronaldo remains determined to compete at the highest level for at least one more year, with the 2026 World Cup being the pinnacle goal.

“Let’s be honest, when I mean soon, it’s probably one or two years I’ll still be in the game,” he said.

Portugal, led by manager Roberto Martínez, has yet to formally qualify for the tournament but can secure its spot by defeating Republic of Ireland in its upcoming qualifier on Thursday. Ronaldo is expected to play a key role as the team aims to seal its berth.

Ronaldo’s closest brush with World Cup glory came in 2006, when Portugal reached the semifinals but lost to France. However, he did achieve international success by winning the UEFA Euro 2016 and the UEFA Nations League 2019 — key milestones in his illustrious international career.

“I Gave Everything for Football”

Reflecting on his journey, Ronaldo emphasized gratitude and satisfaction with what he has accomplished.

“I gave everything for football. I’ve been in the game for the last 25 years. I did everything. I have many records in different scenarios in clubs and also in national teams. I’m really proud. So let’s enjoy the moment, live the moment.”

Despite his age, Ronaldo insists he still feels “quick and sharp” and continues to contribute goals for both Al Nassr and the Portugal national team. “I feel very good in this moment. I score goals; I still feel quick and sharp,” he added.

Cristiano Jr. and the Next Generation

The football legend also touched upon his son’s budding career. Cristiano Ronaldo Jr., now part of Portugal’s Under-16 team, is following in his father’s footsteps.

“As human beings, we always don’t want anybody being better than us. But I wish my kids will be better than me. I’m never going to be jealous of him,” Ronaldo said.“What I want for him is to be happy — whether he plays football or another sport. Don’t be under pressure because your daddy is Cristiano Ronaldo. This is a new generation; they live differently. I’ll always be his support.”

Legacy Beyond Numbers

Ronaldo’s influence extends far beyond statistics. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner (an award recognizing the world’s best footballer each year) has shaped the modern era of football through his athleticism, discipline, and relentless drive. His rivalry with Lionel Messi defined two decades of global football and elevated both players to legendary status.

As Ronaldo nears the twilight of his career, fans worldwide are preparing to bid farewell to one of the greatest footballers in history — a player whose name has become synonymous with excellence, longevity, and an unyielding hunger for success.

Key Highlights:

• Ronaldo’s Age at 2026 World Cup: 41

• International Goals: 143 (Record)

• Total Career Goals: 950+ (Chasing 1,000)

• Sixth World Cup Appearance: 2026 (USA, Canada, Mexico)

• Major Titles: Euro 2016, Nations League 2019, 5 Ballon d’Ors, 5 Champions Leagues

• Current Club: Al Nassr (Saudi Arabia)