The Portuguese Football Federation has handed Cristiano Ronaldo a 30-day suspension and a €255 fine after he left the national team camp amid a reported dispute over his role in the squad.
The federation’s disciplinary council upheld the charge against the 41-year-old Al-Nassr forward in full on Monday, October 19, 2026, concluding that he had intentionally committed an offence under Article 160(1) of its disciplinary regulations.
The case stems from Ronaldo’s departure from Portugal’s camp in September ahead of a Nations League fixture against Denmark. At the time, reports suggested he was unhappy after learning he would not be included in the starting lineup.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner had also been left unused on the bench during Portugal’s match against Norway, fuelling frustration over his involvement in the team.
Ronaldo accused coach of breaking his word
In a subsequent statement, Ronaldo explained his decision to leave the camp and accused coach Jorge Jesus of breaking promises made to him.
He said Jesus had twice “broke his word”, describing the situation as an “absolute breach of trust”.
The Portuguese Football Federation provisionally suspended the forward on October 9 while disciplinary proceedings were ongoing. The latest decision confirms the punishment following the council’s review of the case.
However, the ruling has not clarified which matches or national team activities will be affected by the 30-day suspension. It is also unclear whether the time Ronaldo has already spent under the provisional sanction will count towards the final punishment.
Ronaldo apologises to teammates and supporters
Ronaldo later apologised for failing to acknowledge supporters after the match against Norway and for leaving his teammates.
Despite the controversy, he reaffirmed his willingness to represent Portugal again after serving any punishment imposed over the incident.
His future involvement with the national team will depend on how the suspension is applied and when he becomes eligible to return.
Portuguese FA wants Ronaldo back
Portuguese Football Federation president Pedro Proença has indicated that the federation wants Ronaldo to return to the national team once the matter has been resolved.
The 30-day suspension marks a disciplinary setback for the veteran forward, although uncertainty remains over its practical impact on his international commitments.
For now, the key outstanding questions concern which fixtures or activities Ronaldo will miss and whether the provisional suspension will be deducted from the final period imposed.
