Cristiano Ronaldo Confirms 2026 World Cup Will Be His Last

Cristiano Ronaldo, one of the greatest players in football history, has officially confirmed that the 2026 FIFA World Cup will mark the end of his legendary career.

Speaking via video at a Saudi forum, the 40-year-old Portuguese superstar announced that he plans to retire from professional football within “one or two years,” signaling the final act of a career that has redefined the modern game.

With over 950 goals across club and international competitions, five Ballon d’Or awards, and countless records—including being the world’s top international goalscorer with 143 goals—Ronaldo’s impact transcends generations.

Now playing for Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, he reflected on the emotional difficulty of stepping away from the sport that made him a global icon.

If Portugal qualifies for the 2026 World Cup, hosted across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, it would be his sixth appearance on football’s biggest stage—cementing a farewell worthy of a legend whose drive, longevity, and unmatched legacy have inspired millions around the world.