Portugal strikes! Ronaldo faces suspension and a fine
Cristiano Ronaldo's dramatic departure from Portugal's training camp could have serious disciplinary consequences.
Details: Under Article 160 of the Portuguese Football Federation's disciplinary regulations, a regularly called-up player who unjustifiably leaves or fails to attend a training session, match or other national-team activity can be suspended for between one and six months. If the player is a professional, the rule also provides for a fine of between 5 and 10 units of account — approximately €500 to €1,000.
The second paragraph of Article 160 is even more significant in Ronaldo's situation: the regulation states that an absence or abandonment determines the player's automatic preventive suspension under the disciplinary rules. Therefore, even if the Portuguese captain changed his decision and wanted to return immediately, his disciplinary status would first have to be resolved.
Ronaldo left Portugal's camp in Copenhagen after talks involving Portuguese Football Federation president Pedro Proença, while the national team continued preparing for the UEFA Nations League match against Denmark. The FPF has confirmed the 41-year-old forward's departure, but no final disciplinary punishment has been publicly announced.
The key point is whether Ronaldo's departure is ultimately considered unjustified under Article 160. Until the federation's disciplinary bodies make that determination, the regulation describes the possible sanctions rather than confirming the length of any eventual ban. It is worth noting that Ronaldo remains Portugal's all-time leader in both appearances and goals: UEFA figures updated on September 29 list him with 234 caps and 146 goals.
Reminder: Portugal issues official statement over Ronaldo walkout
Steven Perez
Dailysports's expert
