Daniel Otera
Portuguese football legend Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed that the 2026 FIFA World Cup will mark the end of his remarkable journey on the global stage. Speaking on Tuesday via video link at a forum in Saudi Arabia, the 40-year-old star declared with certainty that next year’s tournament will be his last.
“Definitely, yes,” Ronaldo said when asked if the 2026 World Cup would be his final appearance. “I’m gonna be 41 years old, and I think it will be the moment.”
With over 950 career goals for club and country, Ronaldo also revealed that he plans to retire from football “soon,” saying he expects to hang up his boots within the next one or two years.
“Let’s be honest, when I say soon, it’s probably one or two years I’ll still be in the game,” he explained. “I feel good, I still score goals, I feel sharp, but time waits for no one.”
Currently playing for Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner is aiming to make history by appearing in his sixth World Cup a record that would further cement his legacy as one of football’s greatest players.
Ronaldo came closest to lifting the World Cup trophy in 2006 when Portugal reached the semi-finals before losing to France. Although Portugal has not yet secured qualification for the 2026 edition, the team could confirm their place with a win against Ireland on Thursday.
Reflecting on his legendary career, Ronaldo expressed pride in his journey: “I gave everything to football. For 25 years, I’ve dedicated my life to this game. I’m proud of what I’ve achieved. Now it’s about enjoying every moment left.”
His move to Al Nassr in 2023 marked a new chapter in his career, sparking a wave of high-profile signings to the Saudi Pro League as the oil-rich nation continues to invest heavily in sports as part of its diversification drive.
Ronaldo’s farewell tour is expected to draw global attention, with millions of fans around the world eager to witness what could be his final dance in football’s biggest competition.
Whether he ends with the World Cup trophy or not, Ronaldo’s influence on and off the pitch will continue to echo through generations. For a player who defined an era, the 2026 World Cup will not just be another tournament it will be the grand curtain call of a footballing icon.