Cristiano Ronaldo gives a straight answer after being asked if the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be his last appearance at the tournament

Cristiano Ronaldo has admitted that the FIFA World Cup 2026 it will be his last appearance in the tournament. The Portuguese superstar cited his age as the main reason why he would not play in the 2030 edition.

Speaking to the media, Ronaldo said he is about to call it quits on his career but will play for two more years. He has extended his contract at Al-Nassr until 2027 and believes it will be his final deal.

Asked about the FIFA World Cup and retirement, Ronaldo said:

“Definitely, yes. I'm going to be 41 and I think it's about time. Let's be honest, when I mean soon, it's probably a year or two, I'll still be in the game.”

ancient Portugal has spoken with coach Hugo Oliveira Ojogo earlier this year, claiming that the winners of the UEFA Nations League can win the World Cup next year. He said:

“(Ronaldo) is still hungry. He is hungry. He was a boy (in 2010) and now he is the same. That mentality can be contagious in the Portuguese national team. Maybe his last World Cup could be an amazing way for him to finish his international games with Portugal. I think we have a generation that has to fight to win the competition. We are the top five teams in the competition.”

Cristiano Ronaldo's best result at the World Cup remains the semi-final in 2006.

Cristiano Ronaldo does not dream of winning the FIFA World Cup

Cristiano Ronaldo spoke to Piers Morgan earlier this month and revealed that winning the FIFA World Cup is not a dream for him. He admitted that his career does not depend on winning the tournament and said:

“How many World Cups did Argentina win before Messi? How many? I don't know. Twice. I think. Yes, but it's normal. These countries used to win big competitions. Brazil, if they win the World Cup, they will shock the world. No, if Portugal wins the World Cup, which is possible, they will shock the world.”

“Yes. But in my mind, I don't think that way. Of course, you want to win. Yes. When you compete, you want to win. I'm not honest. For me, I'm not going to change the way I look at things and the way I look at football.”

Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal are close to qualifying this month. They will face Ireland and Armenia in the two knockout finals.