Cristiano Ronaldo Set for Historic Sixth World Cup Appearance with Portugal

Cristiano Ronaldo Set for Historic Sixth World Cup Appearance with Portugal

Cristiano Ronaldo has been officially named in Portugal’s squad for the FIFA World Cup 2026, marking his sixth appearance at football’s biggest tournament and cementing his place in history as one of the game’s most enduring icons.

From his debut in Germany 2006 to the upcoming edition across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, Ronaldo’s World Cup journey now spans two decades. The 41‑year‑old forward, who is Portugal’s all‑time top scorer with 79 goals, is set to wear national colors one final time, with the 2026 tournament expected to be the closing chapter of his legendary international career.

Head coach Roberto Martínez unveiled a 26‑man squad blending experienced stars and emerging talent, including Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, Rúben Dias, and Rafael Leão. Despite injuries ruling out key strikers Rodrygo and Estevão, the spotlight remains firmly on Ronaldo, whose inclusion was considered unlikely by many analysts only days ago.

Martínez, who took charge in May 2025 and recently extended his contract with the Portuguese Football Federation through the 2030 World Cup, described the squad as a balance of resilience and ambition. Portugal will begin their campaign on June 17 against DR Congo, in what promises to be a historic encounter for the African side known as the Leopards.