Cristiano Ronaldo makes brave decision about 2026 FIFA World Cup

Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed that the 2026 World Cup, set to be played across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, will be his last.

Since making his debut in Germany in 2006, the Portuguese forward has never missed a tournament. But as he approaches 41, he says the next edition will mark the end of his World Cup journey.

“My last World Cup? Yes, definitely. I’ll be 41, and I think that’ll be the right time,” Ronaldo said with a smile during a video call from Portugal’s training camp in Oeiras, near Lisbon. He made the remarks while participating in Saudi Arabia’s TOURISE tourism forum, according to Spain’s EFE news agency.

Cristiano on retirement: “Maybe in 10 years”

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner also laughed off any talk of imminent retirement. “Retiring soon? That’ll happen in 10 years. For me, that’s ‘soon,’” he joked. “People think when I say I’ll retire soon, it means six months or a year from now. I’m joking! When you reach a certain age, you start counting the months faster.”

Ronaldo and Portugal are currently closing in on qualification for the 2026 World Cup during November’s international window.

Ronaldo focused on new personal goal

CR7, who has scored eight goals in World Cup tournaments, needs at least one more win, against Ireland in Dublin or Armenia in Porto, to secure Portugal’s spot at the finals. Despite his age, he insists he’s feeling strong and motivated, continuing to score regularly for both Al Nassr and the national team.

Ronaldo recently extended his contract with Saudi club Al Nassr through 2027 and still has one major personal goal in mind: reaching 1,000 career goals.

“In football, I try to enjoy every goal,” he said. “As you know, I’m 40, and I just want to keep enjoying the moment and moving forward. My body feels good, I’m performing well, scoring goals, and helping the team. I want to keep winning titles. This is my life.”

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