‘My Last World Cup’: Cristiano Ronaldo Confirms 2026 Will Mark the End

(Photo by Attila KISBENEDEK / AFP) (Photo by ATTILA KISBENEDEK/AFP via Getty Images)

‘My Last World Cup’: Cristiano Ronaldo Confirms 2026 Will Mark the End

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Sean Hartnett | Last updated Nov 11, 2025 12:07 PM ET

Portugal superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has announced that the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be his last.

The 40-year-old icon confirmed to CNN that next summer’s tournament will be his final World Cup tournament.

"Definitely, yes. I will be 41 years old, and I think [this] will be the moment in the big competition,” Ronaldo told CNN.

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

Ronaldo Has Scored in Five Consecutive World Cups

Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal applauds the fans after the draw in the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Portugal and Hungary at Estadio Jose Alvalade on October 14, 2025 in Lisbon, Portugal. (Photo by Carlos Rodrigues/Getty Images)

Ronaldo captains the Portuguese national team. He has scored 143 goals for Portugal across 225 international appearances. He became the first-ever male to score at five World Cups.

He began his club career at Sporting CP, making his senior team debut at age 17. His Aug. 2003 move to Manchester United launched him into global stardom.

Ronaldo enjoyed decorated spells at Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus. He currently plays for Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr, whom he captains.

He has captured the Ballon d'Or five times. The 6-foot-2 forward has lifted the UEFA Champions League trophy on five occasions, split between Manchester United and Real Madrid.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will begin on Jun. 11, 2026. Canada, Mexico and the United States will host the 48-team tournament.

Portugal will face the Republic of Ireland in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers on Nov. 13. Ronaldo has scored five goals in four qualifying games.

After four qualifying matches, Portugal leads Group F with 10 points. Hungary is second with five points.

Portugal needs two points from its final qualifying group games, away to Ireland on Thursday and hosting Armenia on Sunday. The group winner will qualify directly for the World Cup finals.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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