Cristiano Ronaldo has told CNN that next year’s FIFA World Cup to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico will “definitely” be his final appearance at the tournament and likely the end of his time with Portugal. The 40-year-old said his comment about retiring “soon” should be understood as “probably one, two years.”
Ronaldo, who would turn 41 during the 2026 finals, said the age factor makes the decision clear. “Definitely, yes, because I will be 41 years old,” he told CNN when asked whether the 2026 World Cup will be his last major international tournament. The announcement comes as Portugal move closer to sealing qualification for next year’s finals.
The news caps a career that has already seen Ronaldo appear at five World Cups (2006–2022); playing in 2026 would make him the first man to play at six World Cups. He has repeatedly underlined his desire to continue at the highest level while also preparing for the end of a long career. Several outlets noted Ronaldo saying he expects to have “one or two years” left as a professional.
Ronaldo currently plays for Al-Nassr and has balanced club commitments with the demands of international football; recent reporting has said he plans to fulfil his club contract while winding down his playing days after the World Cup. Some reports also refer to contract arrangements and his stated intention to prioritise preparation and rest to give himself the best chance of competing in 2026.
Reaction across football media framed the announcement as the closing chapter of an era. Portugal’s national setup will now weigh planning for the 2026 campaign around the captain’s expected swansong while also preparing for the transition that follows both on the pitch and in terms of leadership. Sporting commentators noted the significance of Ronaldo potentially seeking a sixth tournament and the motivational boost that could give Portugal as they chase a first World Cup title.
Portugal are scheduled to complete qualification in the coming weeks; if selected, Ronaldo will have one final chance on football’s biggest stage to add the World Cup to an otherwise trophy-heavy international and club résumé. The football world will be watching his form and fitness through the 2025 club season as preparations ramp up for the 2026 finals.
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