Cristiano Ronaldo Confirms 2026 World Cup Will Be His Last, Hints at Retirement Within Two Years

Portugal’s star forward Cristiano Ronaldo has officially confirmed that the 2026 FIFA World Cup will mark the final chapter of his illustrious international career. The announcement comes as the 40-year-old continues to defy age with his extraordinary performances for both club and country, maintaining his position as one of the most influential and celebrated footballers in history.

Ronaldo, who has amassed an unprecedented 953 career goals across club and international competitions, revealed in a recent interview that he plans to retire from professional football within “one or two years,” signaling the end of an era that has spanned more than two decades. His statement underscores that the upcoming World Cup — to be hosted across Canada, Mexico, and the United States — will be his sixth and final appearance on football’s grandest stage, making him one of the few players ever to feature in six editions of the tournament.

Having made his World Cup debut in 2006, Ronaldo has been a central figure in Portugal’s golden generation, leading the national team to historic victories, including the UEFA Euro 2016 and the 2019 UEFA Nations League titles. Despite never lifting the World Cup trophy, his influence on and off the pitch has left a lasting mark on global football.

Ronaldo reflected on his journey with deep emotion, expressing pride in his longevity, discipline, and commitment to the sport. He acknowledged that while his competitive drive remains strong, the time is approaching to pass the torch to a new generation of Portuguese talent.

As the football world anticipates his farewell appearance in the 2026 World Cup, fans and analysts alike recognize that it will be more than just another tournament — it will be a celebration of one of football’s greatest ever careers. Ronaldo’s legacy, defined by records, leadership, and relentless ambition, will continue to inspire players and fans for generations to come.