Cristiano Ronaldo has been handed a 30-day suspension and fine €255 by the Portuguese Football Federation after leaving the national team’s camp during the September international break, following a dispute over his role in the squad.
The 41-year-old Portugal captain was sanctioned on Monday after the federation’s disciplinary council upheld the charge against him. He had been provisionally suspended on October 9 while the case was being considered.
Ronaldo’s departure followed Portugal’s UEFA Nations League matches against Norway and Denmark. He was an unused substitute against Norway and later learned that he would not start against Denmark, a decision that reportedly deepened tensions between the forward and the team’s coaching setup.
Explaining his decision to leave, the Al-Nassr striker accused Portugal coach Jorge Jesus of breaking his word on two occasions, describing the situation as an “absolute breach of trust”.
The punishment comes at a time when Ronaldo’s standing in Portuguese football remains significant, given his long service to the national team and his status as its captain and leading goalscorer.
Ronaldo has scored 146 goals in 234 appearances for Portugal, making him one of the most prolific international players in football history. His experience and leadership have made him central to the national team for years, although his latest dispute has raised fresh questions about his relationship with the coaching staff.
Despite the suspension, Ronaldo is expected to be available for Portugal’s November fixtures, with 19 days of the 30-day ban already served and 11 days remaining, according to reports.
The fine and suspension mark another disciplinary episode in the veteran forward’s international career as Portugal continues to balance his influence and experience with the demands of team selection and squad discipline.