Cristiano Ronaldo Announces Retirement from Portugal National Team at 41, Ends 23-Year International Career
Portuguese football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his intention to retire from international football after the November international break, bringing an end to his remarkable career with the Portugal national team.
The 41-year-old forward made the announcement on Thursday, November 5, 2026, through a social media post, saying he would hand back Portugal’s iconic number seven shirt after the international break.
Ronaldo’s retirement will mark the end of an international career spanning more than two decades, having made his senior debut for Portugal in August 2003. Since then, he has established himself as one of the most successful and influential players in the history of international football.
He leaves the national team as the record holder for the highest number of international appearances and goals in men’s football, with 234 appearances and 146 goals for Portugal.
A Remarkable Journey with Portugal
Ronaldo began his professional football career at Sporting CP in Portugal before attracting international attention with his performances, which earned him a move to Manchester United in 2003.
His outstanding performances at club level helped establish him as one of the world’s leading footballers, winning major trophies with Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus before joining Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr.
At international level, he captained Portugal to its historic first major international trophy at the 2016 European Championship, defeating France in the final.
He also led Portugal to victory in the 2019 and 2025 UEFA Nations League competitions, giving the country three major international titles during his time with the national team.
Historic World Cup Achievements
Ronaldo also made history at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, becoming the first player to score at six different editions of the tournament.
He represented Portugal at the 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022 and 2026 World Cups, scoring 11 goals across 27 appearances in the competition.
Portugal’s campaign ended in the Round of 16 following a defeat to Spain on July 6, 2026, marking his final appearance at the global tournament.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner had previously confirmed that the 2026 World Cup would be his last, although he initially remained uncertain about when he would end his international career.
His decision to retire from Portugal comes after months of speculation about his future with the national team, including a disagreement with head coach Jorge Jesus in September, which led to his temporary departure from the national team camp.
In October, Ronaldo had indicated that he was not ready to retire, promising to give Portuguese supporters one or more farewell matches before ending his international career.
His announcement on Thursday now signals the closing chapter of an extraordinary journey with Portugal, during which he broke numerous records and helped his country achieve major international success.
Ronaldo’s legacy will remain part of football history, particularly for his goal-scoring records, leadership, longevity and contribution to Portuguese football.
Cristiano Ronaldo Announces Retirement from Portugal National Team at 41, Ends 23-Year International Career