Cristiano Ronaldo ended his 23-year international career on 5 November 2026, stepping down from the Portugal national team after a record-setting era. The 41-year-old forward closes his international account with 146 goals across 243 senior appearances for his country. His departure closes a historic chapter that permanently altered Portugal’s standing on the global stage.
Ronaldo launched his senior international career in August 2003 against Kazakhstan. He went on to captain Portugal to their first major international trophy at Euro 2016 in France. Three years later, the veteran striker led his nation to victory in the inaugural 2019 UEFA Nations League tournament.
The legendary forward broke the men’s all-time international scoring record in September 2021, surpassing Iran’s Ali Daei. Ronaldo maintained a dominant presence across six separate European Championship tournaments and five FIFA World Cup finals. His relentless goalscoring record set a benchmark that few modern attackers will ever match.
In an emotional farewell statement, Ronaldo expressed deep gratitude to millions of Portuguese supporters and global fans. He noted that representing Portugal allowed him to push past personal limits while bringing people together across borders. The striker confirmed he will now focus entirely on his remaining club commitments with Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr.
National team coach and federation officials acknowledged the forward’s irreplaceable contribution to Portuguese sporting culture. Portuguese authorities plan to host a formal farewell match to honour his historic achievements before the team resumes competitive qualifiers. Young talents now step into a national squad reshaped by his intense standard of excellence.
Ronaldo leaves the international arena as the most prolific goalscorer in male national team history. His departure shifts operational leadership to a new generation of Portuguese attackers. Legacy secured, the legend steps aside.