Cristiano Ronaldo has been provisionally suspended by the Portuguese Football Federation, a move the veteran striker acknowledged was warranted after he abandoned the national team camp earlier this month. The disciplinary proceedings, formally initiated on October 9, 2026, by the federation’s Non-Professional Section, follow the 41-year-old’s abrupt departure during the most recent international break.
The conflict reportedly stemmed from a dispute with head coach Jorge Jesus. In a letter released this week, Ronaldo stated that Jesus had promised him playing time as a substitute during a Nations League match against Norway. Despite warming up on the sideline, Ronaldo remained on the bench throughout the contest. Following this incident, the forward notified the federation of his intention to leave, subsequently departing before the team’s match against Denmark.
Addressing his exit, Ronaldo expressed regret for his behavior, stating, “I owe my national team teammates an apology for leaving the training camp.” However, he maintained that the coach had “broke his word” on multiple occasions, claiming there was an “absolute breach of trust.” He accepted full responsibility for the situation, noting, “The responsibility is exclusively mine,” and added that as team captain, his actions should be viewed with additional severity by the federation, insisting the punishment should not include mitigating circumstances.
Under federation regulations, abandoning national team activity can result in a suspension ranging from one to six months. Despite the current controversy, the legendary forward, who has tallied 146 goals in 234 appearances for his country and recently completed his sixth World Cup, stated that he retains a strong desire to represent Portugal in the future. Portugal is scheduled to face Denmark and Wales in upcoming Nations League fixtures next month.
Ronaldo has already resumed his professional duties with his club side, Al Nassr, in Saudi Arabia. He participated in a match on Friday, scoring during a 3-0 victory over Diriyah.
