Cristiano Ronaldo announced his retirement from international football on Thursday, 5 November 2026, bringing his 23-year career with Portugal to a close.
The forward delivered the news through a video on social media, reflecting on the responsibility of representing his country and thanking those who supported him. His departure ends an international career that began in August 2003.
Ronaldo leaves with the men’s international records for appearances and goals. UEFA’s records list 234 matches and 146 goals for Portugal, alongside a collection of milestones across European Championships and World Cups.
An emotional farewell to supporters
In his message, Ronaldo said the time had come to return Portugal’s number seven shirt and pass it to the next generation. He described wearing it as both a privilege and a responsibility.
"It was not an easy decision," Ronaldo said.
He thanked supporters, teammates, coaches and staff for their contributions throughout his international career. His farewell also reflected on the connection between the national team and Portuguese communities around the world.
From teenage debut to European champion
Ronaldo made his senior Portugal debut against Kazakhstan on 20 August 2003, aged 18. He entered the match at half-time as a replacement for Luís Figo, according to FIFA’s account of his international career.
His first European Championship ended in disappointment when Greece defeated Portugal in the Euro 2004 final. Twelve years later, he captained the team that secured Portugal’s first major international title.
An injury forced Ronaldo off during the Euro 2016 final against France. Portugal nevertheless won 1-0 through Éder’s extra-time goal, completing their breakthrough on the hosts’ home ground.
Ronaldo subsequently helped Portugal win the UEFA Nations League in 2019 and 2025. Those victories brought his senior international trophy total to three.
A record-setting international career
Ronaldo’s longevity allowed him to compete across six European Championships and six World Cups. UEFA credits him with scoring in six World Cup editions, from 2006 to 2026.
He also holds the record for goals at men’s European Championship finals, with 14. His six appearances at the tournament span the editions held from 2004 to 2024.
Career milestone | Record |
|---|---|
Senior international appearances | 234 |
Senior international goals | 146 |
European Championship finals appearances | 6 tournaments |
World Cup finals appearances | 6 tournaments |
Goals at European Championship finals | 14 |
Sources: UEFA’s record collection and reporting on his retirement.
In September 2021, Ronaldo overtook Iran’s Ali Daei as the leading goalscorer in men’s international football. He became the first male player to reach 200 international appearances against Iceland in June 2023, marking the occasion with a late winning goal.
Departure follows dispute with Portugal coach
The announcement follows a disagreement with Portugal coach Jorge Jesus over Ronaldo’s involvement in the team.
According to Reuters, the Portuguese Football Federation imposed a 30-day suspension and a fine after Ronaldo left the national team camp without permission. The dispute preceded his retirement, but that sequence alone does not establish it as the sole reason for his decision.
The Associated Press identifies his final Portugal appearance as the 1-0 Nations League victory over Wales on 24 September 2026. Ronaldo remains active in club football with Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr.
Federation plans a tribute
The Portuguese Football Federation thanked Ronaldo for his service and expressed its intention to organise a tribute involving supporters.
