Lisbon, August 9, 2025 – As speculation swirls around Cristiano Ronaldo’s participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Portugal’s head coach Roberto Martínez has provided insight into the 40-year-old superstar’s future with the national team. With Ronaldo’s remarkable form for Al Nassr—highlighted by a recent hat-trick in a 4-1 Saudi Pro League win over Al Ahli—fans and pundits alike are eager to know if the five-time Ballon d’Or winner will feature in what would be his sixth World Cup.
When asked directly about Ronaldo’s potential involvement in the 2026 tournament, set to be hosted across the USA, Canada, and Mexico, Martínez remained optimistic but non-committal. “Cristiano is a unique player, and his dedication is extraordinary,” Martínez said in a press conference following Portugal’s recent UEFA Nations League success. “No individual decisions have been made for 2026, but his performances show he’s still at an elite level. We’ll assess step by step, focusing on the present and our upcoming qualifiers.”
Ronaldo, who turned 40 in February, has shown no signs of slowing down. He has scored 12 goals in seven matches this season for Al Nassr and added five goals in the Nations League group stage, including a decisive strike in a 2-1 win over Germany. His international tally stands at 137 goals in 217 appearances, making him the all-time leading scorer in men’s international football.
Teammates and former coaches have also backed Ronaldo’s chances. Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes expressed confidence, stating, “I’m almost certain he’ll be there. It’s his dream to win the World Cup, and for us Portuguese, it’s a dream to help him achieve it.” Former Portugal coach Fernando Santos echoed this sentiment, calling Ronaldo “the best player in the world” and expressing “no doubt” about his participation.
However, some voices on X highlight concerns about Ronaldo’s role. Critics argue his reduced pressing and defensive contributions could force players like Vitinha and João Neves to adapt their game, potentially limiting Portugal’s tactical flexibility. Despite this, Martínez’s continued reliance on Ronaldo as a starter, even after a lackluster Euro 2024, suggests the captain remains central to his plans.
Ronaldo himself has been coy about his plans, focusing on immediate goals like reaching 1,000 career goals. His contract with Al Nassr, recently extended to 2027, indicates he intends to play beyond 2026, potentially with a return to Sporting Lisbon or an MLS move. If selected, Ronaldo would be 41 at the World Cup, making him one of the oldest players ever to compete, and a single appearance would mark a historic sixth World Cup, a record unmatched by any male player.
For now, Martínez’s response keeps the door open, with Ronaldo’s fitness, form, and ambition making his participation highly likely. Portugal’s World Cup qualifiers begin soon, and all eyes will be on whether CR7 can lead the Seleção to glory in what may be his final shot at the elusive title.