Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal
5 November 2026
Cristiano Ronaldo has announced that he will retire from international football after Portugal’s November fixtures, ending a 23-year national-team career. The 41-year-old leaves as the men’s international record holder for appearances and goals.
Ronaldo confirmed his decision publicly, thanking Portugal’s supporters, teammates, coaches and staff. He has made 234 international appearances and scored 146 goals, helping Portugal win Euro 2016 and the Nations League in 2019 and 2025. His announcement concerns international duty, not retirement from club football.
Why It Matters
Portugal must prepare for a new era without their record goalscorer and long-serving captain.