Ronaldo Gets 30-day Suspension, €255 Fine From Portugal

The federation announced its final disciplinary decision on Monday, October 19, 2026, after concluding proceedings against the 41-year-old football star, who left Portugal’s camp in Copenhagen on September 30 following disagreements with head coach Jorge Jesus.

The FPF Disciplinary Council found Ronaldo guilty of deliberately violating Article 160(1) of its disciplinary regulations. The ruling brings the disciplinary proceedings to a conclusion after the former Real Madrid and Manchester United forward had earlier been provisionally suspended.

Under the federation’s regulations, abandoning national team duties without acceptable justification attracts a suspension ranging from one to six months. Ronaldo received the minimum punishment of 30 days alongside a financial penalty of €255.

The disciplinary council considered several mitigating circumstances, including Ronaldo’s contributions to Portuguese football, his sporting achievements and his public expression of remorse. It also acknowledged his admission that leaving the national team camp had been inappropriate.

However, the suspension is unlikely to prevent Ronaldo from representing Portugal during the November international window. The federation’s ruling recognises that he has already served 19 days of the punishment, meaning the remaining period will expire before Portugal’s next scheduled fixtures.

Portugal are expected to face Denmark on November 14 before travelling to Wales on November 17 in their remaining Nations League group matches. Ronaldo could be available for selection, although his return will depend on coach Jorge Jesus.

The controversy began after Ronaldo remained an unused substitute during Portugal’s 2-1 victory over Norway on September 27, despite warming up during the encounter. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner subsequently accused Jesus of failing to honour assurances concerning his playing time.

Tensions intensified when the coach indicated that Ronaldo would not start against Denmark. The veteran forward left the training camp, prompting the federation to open disciplinary proceedings over his conduct.

In a public statement on October 6, Ronaldo apologised to his teammates and supporters, acknowledging that his decision to leave the camp was wrong. He accepted responsibility for his actions and expressed his willingness to face disciplinary consequences.

Portuguese Football Federation President Pedro Proença has previously expressed his desire to see Ronaldo return to the national team once the matter was resolved. Jesus has also indicated that the forward could be considered for future selection.

Portugal have maintained an impressive Nations League campaign despite Ronaldo’s absence, winning their opening four group matches and securing qualification for the quarterfinals with two fixtures remaining.

Ronaldo remains the leading goalscorer in men’s international football, with 146 goals in 234 appearances for Portugal. Although the disciplinary dispute raised questions about his relationship with the national team, he has maintained that he has no immediate plans to retire from international football.

The conclusion of the disciplinary case now leaves the decision over Ronaldo’s return in the hands of the Portuguese coaching staff ahead of November’s international fixtures.