Cristiano Ronaldo retires from Portugal after 23 years

Cristiano Ronaldo has brought down the curtain on his international career. The 41-year-old Al Nassr forward revealed the decision in an Instagram video on 5 November 2026, BBC Sport reported. He walks away as the record holder for both appearances and goals in men's international football, with 234 caps and 146 goals for Portugal.

The farewell follows a public rift with Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus. According to the BBC, Ronaldo left the national team camp in October 2026 after learning he would not start the Nations League game against Denmark. The Daily Express reported that Ronaldo accused Jesus of going back on his word about his role in the side, and that the walkout earned him a 30-day suspension and a fine.

What did Ronaldo say in his farewell message?

In a farewell video lasting roughly five minutes, Ronaldo said he was returning Portugal's number seven shirt to the Portuguese people and that a 23-year journey had reached its end. Rather than dwelling on goals and silverware, he spoke about the supporters, including Portuguese communities living abroad.

How did Ronaldo's Portugal career unfold?

Ronaldo made his Portugal debut in August 2003 as an 18-year-old. According to the Daily Express, he went on to play at six World Cups and five European Championships, and led his country to the Euro 2016 title, Portugal's first major tournament trophy. ScoreLab data shows he finishes with 234 caps, 146 goals and 20 assists, along with two UEFA Nations League triumphs. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner's final appearance came on 24 September 2026, when he played 67 minutes of a 1-0 Nations League win over Wales.

From the Jorge Jesus row to retirement: timeline

1. August 2003 — Ronaldo makes his senior Portugal debut aged 18.
2. 2016 — Portugal win Euro 2016 with Ronaldo as captain.
3. 24 September 2026 — Ronaldo plays 67 minutes of a 1-0 Nations League win over Wales (ScoreLab data).
4. October 2026 — He leaves the Portugal camp after being told he would not start against Denmark (BBC).
5. October 2026 — He receives a 30-day suspension and a fine over the walkout (Daily Express).
6. 5 November 2026 — He announces his international retirement in an Instagram video.

What next for Cristiano Ronaldo?

Ronaldo's retirement covers international football only, and he continues his club career with Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr, where his contract runs until 30 June 2027. ScoreLab data shows he has scored 7 goals in 10 league games in 2026/27, including a hat-trick in a 5-3 win over Al Kholood on 29 October 2026. The Daily Express noted that Ronaldo had been eligible for Portugal's upcoming matches against Denmark and Wales despite his ban; his decision rules him out of both. The visible sources do not yet carry any reaction from the Portuguese Football Federation or Jorge Jesus.