Cristiano Ronaldo has been given a 30-day suspension and a €255 (£215) fine by the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) after he left Portugal’s international camp in September. The punishment, however, will not cause the Al-Nassr forward to miss any future international matches.
The 41-year-old captain departed the Nations League squad after being an unused substitute against Norway and finding out he would not start against Denmark on 1 October. Ronaldo later accused Portugal coach Jorge Jesus of breaking his word and damaging their relationship.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal suspension explained
Ronaldo explained his departure in a lengthy statement, saying Jesus had twice “broken his word” and calling the situation an “absolute breach of trust”. The forward also took responsibility for his actions, apologised to his teammates and supporters, and acknowledged that disciplinary action was justified.
The FPF disciplinary committee confirmed the suspension and fine after reviewing the case. Its decision considered Ronaldo’s expression of remorse, his contributions to football, and the recognition he had received for his sporting achievements.
As part of his defence, the Portugal captain submitted his CV, detailing his awards and career accomplishments. He also pointed the committee to his earlier statement, in which he accepted accountability and said he deserved to be punished.
Why Ronaldo will not miss Portugal’s next matches
Although the suspension lasts 30 days, it is backdated to the day of Portugal’s match against Denmark. Ronaldo has already served 19 days of the ban, meaning the punishment will not keep him out of any Portugal fixtures.
Portugal is scheduled to face Denmark in the Nations League on 14 November before travelling to Wales three days later. With the suspension period already accounted for, Ronaldo remains available for those matches.
Jorge Jesus responds to Ronaldo’s departure
Jesus has denied reaching any agreement with Ronaldo over his involvement in the national team. Despite the disagreement, the Portugal coach has not closed the door on the forward’s return.
Pedro Proenca, president of the FPF, also indicated that the governing body wants Ronaldo back in the national team once the matter has been resolved. Speaking to Portuguese outlet Record, Proenca described the desire to welcome him back as “strong”.
Ronaldo’s Portugal record and Al-Nassr contract
Ronaldo remains a central figure in Portugal’s football history, having scored 146 goals in 234 appearances for the national team. Both figures are men’s world records, while his international career has also included triumphs at Euro 2016 and two Nations League tournaments.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner joined Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr in December 2022 on a reported annual salary of £177 million. He signed a contract extension last year, continuing his career in Saudi Arabia while remaining a key figure for Portugal.