Key Takeaways:
- The FIFA Disciplinary Committee imposed a three-match ban on Cristiano Ronaldo, with two matches suspended on a one-year probation
- Ronaldo had already served his one-match suspension during Portugal’s 9-1 home victory over Armenia
- The Portugal star will be available for selection at the start of the 2026 World Cup group stage
FIFA Reduces Ronaldo’s Suspension
Cristiano Ronaldo will not be suspended for Portugal’s opening matches at the 2026 World Cup, following an announcement from the FIFA Disciplinary Committee. The forward was shown a red card during a qualifying fixture against the Republic of Ireland after elbowing defender Dara O’Shea in Portugal’s 0-2 defeat in Dublin two weeks ago. On Tuesday, FIFA confirmed that Ronaldo received a three-match ban, but stipulated that two of the matches would be suspended for a one-year probation period.
Cristiano Ronaldo can play in the first game of the 2026 World Cup after FIFA's Disciplinary Committee issued him a one-match ban — which he has already served — for the red card he received in his country's 2-0 loss to the Republic of Ireland on Nov. 13. pic.twitter.com/FWh437UE7z
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) November 25, 2025
Suspension Already Served as Portugal Seals Qualification
The former Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus striker has already missed one match after serving his suspension in Portugal’s last qualifier, a commanding 9-1 home win over Armenia. This emphatic result ensured the Iberian side’s progression to the 2026 World Cup finals, set to be held in North America.
| Date | Opponent | Result | Ronaldo’s Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 13.11 | Republic of Ireland | 0-2 (Loss) | Sent off (red card) |
| 16.11 | Armenia | 9-1 (Win) | Suspended |
Penalty Follows High-Profile Meetings
This disciplinary decision was issued six days after Ronaldo met with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House and attended an official dinner alongside Saudi crown prince Mohammed bin Salman. Expectations before the statement suggested Ronaldo might miss the opening match of Portugal’s World Cup campaign, but the outcome now assures he will be available for selection from the outset.
