Ronaldo Announces Retirement from Portugal National Team

Portuguese football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international football.

This development brings an end to his illustrious career with the national team after more than two decades of representing his country.

The 41-year-old made the announcement on Thursday, November 5, 2026, through a social media post in which he confirmed that he would step away from international football after the November international break.

Ronaldo, who has captained Portugal for several years, said the time had come for him to hand back the famous number 7 shirt, which has become closely associated with his name throughout his international career.

The Al-Nassr forward made his senior debut for Portugal in August 2003 and went on to become the most-capped player in international football history, with 234 appearances for his country.

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He also holds the record for the highest number of international goals scored by a male footballer, having found the back of the net 146 times for Portugal.

During his time with the national team, Ronaldo played a major role in some of the most memorable moments in the history of Portuguese football, particularly when he led the country to its first major international trophy at the 2016 European Championship in France.

Portugal defeated host nation France 1-0 after extra time in the final, despite Ronaldo leaving the pitch in the first half due to injury, as his teammates went on to secure the historic victory.

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He also helped Portugal win the UEFA Nations League in 2019 and 2025, further strengthening his place among the most successful players in the history of the national team.

Ronaldo represented Portugal at several major international competitions, including six FIFA World Cup tournaments, becoming one of the few players to achieve that record.

His international career also featured numerous individual achievements, including multiple European Championship appearances, record-breaking goals and several memorable performances against some of the biggest football nations in the world.

Before making the latest announcement, Ronaldo had previously considered retiring from international football after the 2026 FIFA World Cup but decided to continue because he believed he could still contribute to the national team.

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His decision now brings an end to one of the longest and most successful international careers in modern football.

His retirement will leave a major gap in the Portuguese national team, particularly because of his experience, leadership and goal-scoring record.

Although he is retiring from international football, the announcement does not mean he is ending his professional club career, as he remains contracted to Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr.

Ronaldo is widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, having won five Ballon d’Or awards and numerous domestic and international trophies during his career.

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