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Ronaldo's historic sixth World Cup appearance
Cristiano Ronaldo will become one of only three players to feature in six World Cups when Portugal begin their 2026 campaign against DR Congo on June 17. The 41-year-old forward, Portugal's all-time top scorer with 143 international goals, will join Argentina's Lionel Messi and Mexico's Guillermo Ochoa in the record books.
Ronaldo's journey with the national team started on August 20, 2003, in a modest 1-0 friendly win over Kazakhstan in Chaves. The match, played on a pitch so poor its grass was painted green, drew just 8,000 fans but marked the beginning of a transformative era for Portuguese football.
A legacy beyond statistics
Ronaldo's impact extends far beyond his goal tally. According to Joao Aroso, who worked with him at Sporting CP and the national team, the forward has given Portugal a global identity. "We are a small country that rarely has global impact outside football," Aroso told BBC Sport. "Cristiano allows our small country to be known worldwide for something great - because of all the positive things he stands for."
His influence has redefined what Portugal believes it can achieve, though his role has increasingly come under scrutiny as his career enters its twilight phase.
Debate over Ronaldo's role intensifies
While Ronaldo has remained a central figure under current coach Roberto Martinez, questions about his place in the starting lineup have grown louder since the 2022 World Cup. Antonio Simoes, a member of Portugal's 1966 World Cup squad, argued that Ronaldo "doesn't play to win, he plays to be the main figure," contrasting him with legendary striker Eusebio.
Martinez has consistently defended his captain, pointing to his recent form: 25 goals in his last 31 appearances for Portugal. "We are talking about the greatest player of all time," Martinez said. "He is here because he is still performing at a very high level, not because of what he achieved in the past."
However, some analysts argue the team performs better without him. Portugal recorded their two biggest wins of the current cycle - 9-0 against Luxembourg and 9-1 over Armenia - in matches where Ronaldo was absent. Sofia Oliveira, a pundit for CNN Portugal and DAZN, stated: "He doesn't have the football any more to be a starter for a side that wants to win the World Cup."
Physical decline vs. mental edge
While Ronaldo's speed may have diminished, his experience and mental strength remain invaluable, according to former teammates. Abel Xavier, a former Portugal international, told BBC World Service: "Cristiano understands the big moments better than almost anyone in football. That experience can be decisive in a World Cup."
Former goalkeeper Ricardo, who played alongside Ronaldo in his debut match, compared his current form to his prime: "Instead of running at 200km/h, he is running at 195km/h now. It is still incredibly high. As long as the physical, technical and mental qualities are still there, he remains a devastating force."
Federation prepares for post-Ronaldo era
The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) has begun planning for life after Ronaldo, though his influence remains significant. In February, the FPF announced a partnership with AVA CR7, a physical recovery company owned by Ronaldo, which raised eyebrows. The federation insisted there was no conflict of interest, stating Ronaldo was not involved in negotiations.
FPF president Pedro Proenca acknowledged the overlap between Ronaldo's personal brand and the national team but emphasized financial stability. "The FPF has always prepared for its present and its future," Proenca said. "The federation's operating revenues are secure for the continuity of a cycle that will happen naturally and normally, which is Cristiano's departure."
The FPF recently approved a 2026-27 budget projecting record revenue of €161 million, following 13 consecutive years of profit.
One final shot at World Cup glory
Ronaldo has confirmed this will be his last World Cup. With eight goals in previous tournaments, he is one short of Eusebio's Portuguese record. However, his ultimate ambition remains lifting the trophy for the first time.
Portugal's campaign begins against DR Congo on June 17, with Ronaldo expected to play a central role despite the ongoing debate about his starting position. As Martinez put it, the focus should remain on his contributions rather than "lift talk."
