Cristiano Ronaldo has officially announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to an extraordinary 23-year career with Portugal. The 41-year-old football legend confirmed the decision on Thursday, November 5, 2026, in an emotional video shared on social media.
The announcement marks the end of an era for Portuguese football, with Ronaldo stepping away from the national team after becoming the most-capped player and highest goalscorer in men's international football history.
© Getty ImagesHowever, Cristiano Ronaldo is not retiring from professional football entirely. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner will continue playing club football for Saudi Arabian side Al Nassr, according to FIFA.
Cristiano Ronaldo Announces Retirement in Emotional Farewell Video
Ronaldo delivered the news in a heartfelt video addressed to the Portuguese people, reflecting on more than two decades of representing his country. "To the Portuguese people, the day has come for me to hand back the No7 shirt of our national team," he said.
The former Real Madrid and Manchester United star explained that the decision was deeply personal, having worn Portugal's iconic No. 7 jersey since his international debut in August 2003.
© NurPhoto via Getty ImagesRonaldo acknowledged that stepping away from the national team was far from easy, describing the emotional connection he had developed with Portugal's supporters, teammates and coaching staff. "It was not an easy decision," he admitted, adding that some choices "are also made with the heart."
His retirement is set to take effect after the November international break, closing a remarkable chapter in his career.
Why Is Cristiano Ronaldo Retiring From International Football?
Ronaldo's retirement follows months of speculation about his future, particularly after Portugal's elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Portugal's campaign ended with a 1-0 defeat to eventual champions Spain in the round of 16, making the tournament Ronaldo's sixth and final World Cup appearance.
© FIFA via Getty ImagesAlthough the football icon has continued to compete at an exceptional level into his forties, he previously acknowledged that the end of his playing career was approaching.
In an August 2026 interview with Vogue, Ronaldo revealed: "This is probably my last year of football, and I want to leave a spectacular legacy."
While Ronaldo has not confirmed a definitive date for leaving Al Nassr, his contract runs until June 2027.
Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal Career: Goals, Records and Trophies
- 234 International appearances
- 146 Goals for Portugal
- 23 Years representing Portugal
- 6 FIFA World Cup tournaments
© FIFA via Getty ImagesRonaldo's international career began on August 20, 2003, when he made his Portugal debut against Kazakhstan at just 18 years old. His first international goal came against Greece during UEFA Euro 2004. From that moment, he developed into one of the most influential players in Portuguese sporting history.
His greatest international achievement arrived in 2016, when he captained Portugal to its first European Championship title. Ronaldo also helped Portugal win the UEFA Nations League in 2019 and 2025, adding further trophies to an international career defined by longevity, leadership and consistency.
At the 2026 World Cup, he scored three goals, taking his overall World Cup tally to 11. His six tournament appearances and goals across six World Cups further cemented his place in football history.
Cristiano Ronaldo's Emotional Message to Portugal Fans
One of the most personal moments in Ronaldo's retirement speech came when he reflected on what representing Portugal meant beyond goals and trophies. He acknowledged the sacrifices involved in playing for the national team, including time spent away from his family.
He also thanked his teammates, coaches, medical staff, and the millions of supporters who had followed his international journey.
© ISI Photos via Getty ImagesRather than focusing exclusively on his individual achievements, Ronaldo emphasized the importance of national pride and the relationships built throughout his career.
In a particularly memorable reflection, he said: "Goals fade. Trophies end up in museums. Records are eventually broken." He went on to explain that the connection between players and supporters would remain long after his records were surpassed.
The football superstar also reflected on his childhood in Madeira, where his dream of becoming a professional footballer first began. In his farewell, Ronaldo described representing Portugal as his greatest victory.
© PATRICIA DE MELO MOREIRAThe Portuguese forward is expected to continue representing Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, where he has played since joining the club in late 2022. In a November 2025 interview with Piers Morgan, Ronaldo admitted that leaving football would be an emotional experience. "It will be tough, of course. I probably will cry, yes," he said.
For now, fans will still have opportunities to watch Ronaldo compete at club level, even as his international career comes to a close.
