Cristiano Ronaldo Retires from Portugal National Team
Cristiano Ronaldo, a renowned football player, announced his retirement from Portugal's national team on November 5, 2026. He shared an emotional video and letter, stating it was time to pass on his number 7 shirt after a record-breaking international career that began in 2003. Ronaldo will continue playing club football with Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia.
By The Junior Post
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On November 5, 2026, Cristiano Ronaldo, a well-known football player, announced his retirement from Portugal's national team. He shared an emotional video on Instagram and read a letter to his supporters, saying it was time to "hand back the number 7 shirt of our national team."
Ronaldo's international career for Portugal began in 2003 and lasted for 23 years. During this time, he became Portugal's all-time leading goalscorer, with 146 goals in 234 appearances. He also played in more games for the national team than any other player.
His time with the national team included significant victories, such as helping Portugal win their first major international trophy at Euro 2016. He also contributed to UEFA Nations League triumphs in 2019 and 2025.
Ronaldo described his decision as difficult, made with both his mind and heart. He reflected on his pursuit of winning and making history throughout his international career. The Portuguese Football Federation expressed "deep gratitude and immense admiration" for his service and plans to organize a tribute.
Even though he is retiring from international play, Ronaldo will continue his club career. He currently plays for Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, where he is working towards scoring his 1,000th career goal.
Knowledge Vault
National Football Team
A national football team is a group of players chosen to represent their country in international football competitions. These teams compete against other countries' national teams in tournaments like the World Cup or the UEFA European Championship. Players are usually selected based on their skill and performance in club football.
Club Football
Club football refers to football played by teams that are part of a specific club, rather than representing a country. Players often sign contracts with these clubs and play in leagues and competitions within a country or across different countries. Cristiano Ronaldo continues to play club football even after retiring from his national team.
Goalscorer and Most-Capped Player
A 'goalscorer' is a player who scores goals. Being an 'all-time leading goalscorer' means a player has scored more goals than anyone else in the history of a particular team or competition. A 'most-capped player' is someone who has played in the highest number of matches for a national team, with each match being called a 'cap'. These titles show a player's long-term impact and success.
Check your understanding
- What was one of Cristiano Ronaldo's major achievements with the Portugal national team?
- He became the youngest player to score 100 goals in a single season.
- He helped Portugal win their first major international trophy at Euro 2016.
- He was the first player to win five consecutive UEFA Champions League titles.
- He coached the national team to a World Cup victory.
- What does Cristiano Ronaldo plan to do after retiring from international football?
- He plans to become a full-time coach for a youth team.
- He will stop playing football entirely.
- He will continue his club career with Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia.
- He will join the Portuguese Football Federation as an administrator.
- How did Cristiano Ronaldo announce his retirement from the national team?
- Through a press conference held by the Portuguese Football Federation.
- By sending a formal letter to the media.
- By sharing an emotional video on Instagram and reading a letter to supporters.
- During a live television interview after a match.