Cristiano Ronaldo has been provisionally suspended by the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) following his decision to walk out of the national team camp. The disciplinary action was confirmed Saturday after the 41-year-old striker exited the squad during the recent international break, citing a breakdown in communication with head coach Jorge Jesus.
The Conflict and Departure
The tension began when Ronaldo was told he would be a substitute for a Nations League match against Norway. Despite warming up on the sideline, the forward did not receive any playing time. Following this, he departed the camp before the subsequent fixture against Denmark after notifying the federation of his intention to leave.
Disciplinary Proceedings
- “Disciplinary proceedings have been initiated against Cristiano Ronaldo dos Santos Aveiro, following a decision by the Non-Professional Section on October 9, 2026,” the FPF stated.
- Ronaldo has already returned to his club, Al Nassr, scoring in a 3-0 win over Diriyah on Friday.
- Under federation regulations, a player who abandons national team activity can face a suspension ranging from one to six months.
In a letter revealed this week, Ronaldo addressed the situation, claiming Jesus had “broke his word” on multiple occasions. Despite this, he took full responsibility for his exit.
Ronaldo’s Statement
“I owe my national team teammates an apology for leaving the training camp,” Ronaldo said. “Despite the absolute breach of trust in the coach’s word, as anyone who witnessed our conversations can testify, I should not have done it. The consequence of my actions should be assessed and punished by the federation. The punishment should not have any mitigating circumstances. I am not just any player; I am the captain of the team, and that constitutes an aggravating factor.”
Having recently participated in his sixth World Cup, the veteran striker, who has recorded 146 goals in 234 appearances for Portugal, expressed that he still retains the desire to represent his country in the future. Portugal is scheduled to face Denmark and Wales in Nations League matches next month.
