'Definitely, yes' - Cristiano Ronaldo confirms plans after 2026 World Cup

Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has announced that the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be his final appearance at the tournament.

The Al Nassr forward, who will be 41 years old when the World Cup kicks off in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, has also revealed that his full retirement from football is likely “one or two years away.”

Ronaldo has scored over 950 career goals for club and country, earning five Ballon d’Or awards and dozens of team trophies in a career spanning more than two decades.

Speaking via video link at a global tourism and investment forum in Saudi Arabia, Ronaldo was asked directly if the 2026 World Cup would be his last.

“Definitely, yes,” he said. “I’m going to be 41 years old, and I think it will be the moment.”

The Portugal captain laughed when asked about how soon retirement could come.

“Soon for me means in 10 years… No, I’m joking,” he quipped. “I’m really enjoying the moment right now. As you know, in football, when you reach a certain age, you count the months very quickly.”

Despite his age, Ronaldo insists he still feels sharp and motivated.

“I feel very good at this moment. I score goals, and I still feel quick and sharp. I’m enjoying my game in the national team. But of course, let’s be honest. What I mean by soon is probably one or two years,” he added.

With Portugal on the verge of sealing qualification for the 2026 World Cup, Ronaldo reflected on his 25-year journey in the sport.

“I gave everything for football. I’ve been in the game for the last 25 years. I have done everything; I have many records in various scenarios at clubs and also with the national team. I’m really proud. So let’s enjoy the moment, live the moment.”

Ronaldo’s best World Cup finish came in 2006, when Portugal reached the semi-finals before losing to France. He has since appeared in every edition of the tournament, making him one of the few players in history to do so.