Riyadh, Saudi Arabia: Portuguese football legend Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed that the 2026 FIFA World Cup will mark the end of his illustrious international career. Speaking via video link at a Saudi forum on Tuesday, the 40-year-old said he plans to retire from football within the next couple of years.

“Definitely, yes,” Ronaldo said when asked if the 2026 edition would be his World Cup swansong. “I’m gonna be 41 years old and I think it will be the moment.”

Currently playing for Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, Ronaldo acknowledged that his playing days are nearing their conclusion. “Let’s be honest, when I say soon, it’s probably one or two years I’ll still be in the game,” he remarked.

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner is targeting a record sixth World Cup appearance next year. His closest attempt at lifting the trophy came in 2006, when Portugal reached the semi-finals before losing to France.

Portugal are yet to officially qualify for the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico, but they can secure their spot by defeating Ireland in their upcoming qualifier on Thursday.

Ronaldo’s move to Al Nassr in 2023, following his departure from Manchester United, sparked a wave of high-profile signings in the Saudi Pro League. His arrival coincided with Saudi Arabia’s growing investment in sports and entertainment as part of its national diversification plan - an effort that saw the Kingdom awarded the rights to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup.

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