In a major relief for Portugal and football fans worldwide, superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has been cleared to play in the opening matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The global football governing body, FIFA, has given the 40-year-old a partially suspended ban following a red card he received during a qualifier.
The FIFA Disciplinary Ruling Explained
The decision was announced on Tuesday, November 25, 2025. FIFA banned Ronaldo for three matches, but with a crucial stipulation. Two of those matches are suspended, while the third has already been served. This means the Al Nassr forward will not miss any games at the start of the World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
According to a FIFA statement given to AFP, the serving of the two remaining matches is suspended under a one-year probation period, as per article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code. If Ronaldo commits another similar infringement during this probation, the suspension will be automatically revoked, and he will be required to serve the two matches immediately in Portugal's next official fixtures.
The Incident and Ronaldo's World Cup Ambition
The suspension stems from an incident earlier in November when Portugal lost 2-0 in Dublin. Ronaldo was sent off for elbowing Ireland's Dara O’Shea in the back. This was his first dismissal in 226 international appearances, a remarkable record for the men's all-time top international goalscorer with 143 goals.
Interestingly, prior to the match, Ronaldo had said he wanted Ireland fans to boo him, suggesting it might take pressure off his teammates. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner is now set to feature in his sixth World Cup, having yet to lift the trophy, though he did lead Portugal to victory in Euro 2016.
Ronaldo's Form and Off-Field Engagements
Despite the disciplinary setback, Ronaldo continues to make headlines. Recently, he rolled back the years with a spectacular 96th-minute overhead bicycle kick for his Saudi club, Al Nassr, in a 4-1 win against Al Khaleej. He celebrated the goal on social media, asking his followers for the 'best caption'.
The emphatic victory left his side four points clear at the top of the Saudi Pro League after nine matches. Off the pitch, Ronaldo attended a dinner at the White House last week, where he met former US President Donald Trump, who mentioned his son Barron is a big fan.
With the World Cup group stage draw scheduled for December 5, all eyes will be on Portugal's path and the continued career of one of football's greatest icons.
