Escaped the maximum penalty! Cristiano Ronaldo will be able to play in the World Cup opener
Steven Perez
Dailysports's expert
Portugal national team star Cristiano Ronaldo has been sanctioned by FIFA's Disciplinary Committee for aggressive conduct during a 2026 World Cup qualifier.
Details: According to Record, FIFA handed Ronaldo a one-match suspension, which he already served during the 2026 World Cup qualifier against Armenia, as well as a two-game suspended ban, which will depend on his future behavior.
This means Ronaldo will be eligible to take the field in Portugal's opening match at the 2026 World Cup, provided he avoids further disciplinary infractions. Portugal's opponents at the tournament are yet to be determined, with the group stage draw scheduled for December 5, 2025.
To recap, Ronaldo was sent off during the match against Ireland in Dublin on November 13 after elbowing Irish defender O'Shea. The referee initially showed a yellow card, but after reviewing the incident on VAR, upgraded it to a straight red.
Reminder: FIFA deleted the first official 2026 World Cup poster due to Ronaldo fans.
