Cristiano Ronaldo may miss the opening fixtures of the 2026 FIFA World Cup as the first red card of his 226-cap Portugal career was handed to him. This was during Portugal’s 2-0 loss to the Republic of Ireland, where he was sent off for violent conduct after the VAR reviewed an initial yellow card and determined it was a red for elbowing Dara O’Shea.
The Al Nassr forward had promised to be a “good boy” ahead of the fixture in Dublin and now faces a suspension that could seriously impact what he has publicly acknowledged will be his final World Cup.
Minimum One-Game Suspension Already Confirmed
According to the rules, Cristiano Ronaldo will be automatically handed a one-match ban by FIFA. His suspension could extend to two or even three matches, putting his participation in the World Cup at risk, if decided so by the disciplinary committee.
Ronaldo said earlier: “Of course, definitely yes, it will be my last World Cup because I will be 41 years old.”
Which match will Ronaldo definitely miss?
He will certainly miss Portugal’s last World Cup qualifier, against Armenia, on Nov. 16, a match in which Portugal needs only a draw or win to ensure automatic qualification for the 2026 tournament. Without him, any slip-up could send them into the European playoffs, always an unpredictable route and one that has given major nations headaches in recent years.
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What If Scenario 1: Portugal reach the European Playoffs?
Such a scenario is that if Portugal fail to get points against Armenia and the result for Ireland vs Hungary goes against them, they would drop to second place and enter the playoffs. In that case:
Portugal’s next competitive games would be the playoff semifinal and final.
A two- or three-game suspension would mean Cristiano Ronaldo might miss both.
This may affect Portugal’s qualification expectations altogether.
Scenario 2: What If Portugal Qualify Automatically?
A draw against Armenia sees Portugal through to the 2026 World Cup. Should they finish first in the group, their next competitive fixtures will be at the tournament proper.
A two-match or three-match ban from FIFA would see Cristiano Ronaldo miss Portugal’s first two group-stage games and only return for the third when Portugal’s elimination may already be looming. This is most likely to happen considering how well Portugal has fared in qualification.
How long could Ronaldo be banned?
The disciplinary effect completely depends upon the committee of FIFA. Rules specify:
One-match ban is automatic for any red card.
For serious foul play, at least a two-match ban can be considered.
Assault, in the sense of elbowing, punching, or kicking an opponent, can constitute a three-match ban.
While it might technically be possible for Ronaldo to receive no additional suspension, this still remains improbable considering the nature of the offense.
When will FIFA announce the final verdict?
There is no set deadline, but historically, FIFA’s disciplinary verdicts have been released early in the following month. That would mean Cristiano Ronaldo’s fate could be decided as late as next month, drawing drama to an already potentially contentious 2026 World Cup draw on Dec. 5 in Washington DC.
Ronaldo’s Reflections on His Last World Cup
Cristiano Ronaldo recently admitted that the 2026 World Cup will mark his last. He has pointed out that he will retire in “one or two years,” saying: “I feel very good at the moment, I still feel fast and sharp. But when I say soon, I mean soon… maybe one or two years. I’ve given everything to football for 25 years and I’m proud of my records.”
