Ronaldo Confirms Final World Cup and Plans Retirement

Published: 12 November 2025 | The English Chronicle Desk | The English Chronicle Online

Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal’s legendary striker, has confirmed that the 2026 World Cup will mark the end of his international career. The 40-year-old forward, who has scored 953 goals for club and country, also revealed that he plans to retire from football within the next one to two years.

Next year’s World Cup, hosted across Canada, Mexico, and the United States, will be Ronaldo’s sixth tournament, cementing his place among the sport’s all-time greats. Speaking at the Tourise Summit in Riyadh, Ronaldo stated: “Definitely, yes. I will be 41 years old and I think [this] will be the moment in the big competition.”

Currently playing in Saudi Arabia with Al-Nassr, Ronaldo is the all-time leading men’s international goalscorer with 143 goals and is still chasing the milestone of 1,000 career goals.

Ronaldo, who has played for Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus, previously indicated he would retire “soon.” On Tuesday, he clarified that “soon” would likely mean one or two years, adding that he intends to continue playing at a high level until then.

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner has enjoyed a glittering career, including leading Portugal to their first major title at Euro 2016. However, the World Cup remains one of the few trophies missing from his extensive collection.

Portugal, coached by Roberto Martinez, has yet to secure qualification for next year’s tournament but will clinch a spot if they overcome the Republic of Ireland on Thursday.

As Ronaldo looks ahead to the 2026 World Cup, fans around the globe will have one final chance to witness the brilliance of one of football’s most prolific and celebrated players, whose legacy has shaped a generation.