Cristiano Ronaldo Confirms 2026 World Cup Will Be His Last

Portuguese football icon Cristiano Ronaldo has officially announced that the 2026 World Cup will be my last – Ronaldo declared during a recent global forum. The 40-year-old legend confirmed that the next edition of football’s biggest tournament will mark the end of his remarkable journey on the world stage. The statement, made on Tuesday, signifies the closing chapter of one of the greatest careers in football history.

Speaking via video link at a tourism and investment event hosted in Saudi Arabia, the Al Nassr forward expressed that while he still feels fit and motivated, he understands that his playing days are nearing their end. When asked directly if the 2026 World Cup would be his final appearance, Ronaldo responded without hesitation, saying, “Definitely, yes. I’m going to be 41 years old, and I think it will be the moment.”

The veteran striker, who has scored over 950 goals across club and international competitions, admitted that he still feels strong, fast, and sharp, but acknowledged that time waits for no one. “I feel very good at this moment. I score goals, I feel quick and sharp, and I’m enjoying playing for the national team. But let’s be honest, what I mean by soon is probably one or two years,” he said with a smile.

Portugal is on the verge of booking their ticket to the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. For Ronaldo, the tournament represents both a farewell and a celebration of an extraordinary 25-year career. “Let’s be honest, when I say soon, it’s probably one or two years. I’ll still be in the game. Definitely yes, because I will be 41 years old (at the World Cup). I gave everything for football. I’ve been in the game for 25 years. I did everything, I have many records for clubs and the national team. I’m really proud. So let’s enjoy the moment and live the moment,” he said.

The Al Nassr captain has continuously proven that age is just a number, maintaining top-level performances in the Saudi Pro League. His commitment, discipline, and relentless drive have kept him relevant long after many of his contemporaries have retired. Still, his statement that the 2026 World Cup will be my last – Ronaldo marks a significant emotional moment for fans around the globe, signaling the approaching end of an era defined by greatness.

Ronaldo also touched on his family life, especially his son, Cristiano Jr., who is already showing promise as part of Portugal’s Under-16 team. “As human beings, we don’t always want anyone to be better than us, but I wish my kids will be better than me. I’m never going to be jealous of him. I just want him to be happy, whether that’s in football or another sport,” Ronaldo said. He added that he doesn’t want to put pressure on his son because living up to his name would already be a huge challenge. “This is a new generation. They think differently, they live differently. My job as a father is to support him and help him become whatever he wants to be,” he added.

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner is aiming to make one last push for the only major trophy that has eluded him — the World Cup title. His closest attempt came in 2006 when Portugal reached the semi-finals before being knocked out by France. Despite missing out on that glory, Ronaldo’s achievements in the sport are unmatched: from league titles across England, Spain, and Italy to his triumph at the 2016 UEFA European Championship with Portugal.

While Portugal still needs one more win — particularly against Ireland in their next qualifier — to secure a place in the 2026 tournament, the nation and fans worldwide are already preparing to witness Ronaldo’s final bow on football’s grandest stage.

With 2026 World Cup will be my last – Ronaldo now officially declared, the world will watch in anticipation as one of football’s greatest icons prepares for his final World Cup journey, hoping to end an unparalleled career with the ultimate prize.