Cristiano Ronaldo announced Thursday that he is retiring from Portugal after 234 appearances and 146 goals, ending a career spanning more than two decades and six World Cups. The longtime captain, whose departure follows a clash with coach Jorge Jesus, won Euro 2016 and the 2019 and 2025 Nations Leagues; he will return the number 7 shirt after the November international break.
WHO:
Cristiano Ronaldo
WHAT:
Cristiano Ronaldo announced his retirement from international football and said he would hand back Portugal’s number 7 shirt after the November international break. He made 234 appearances for Portugal and scored 146 goals, captained the team to its first major trophy at Euro 2016, and helped it win the 2019 and 2025 Nations Leagues. The 41-year-old announced the decision in a video posted to Instagram. His international career leaves a complicated legacy, and his departure follows a clash with national team coach Jorge Jesus. He holds the men's international scoring record and won a European title; he will return the number 7 shirt after the November international break.
WHEN:
Reported Nov 6, 2026 at 7:55 AM ET
WHERE:
Portugal
WHY:
Ronaldo described the decision as difficult, saying it involved both his head and his heart, but did not give a specific reason. Al Jazeera and Deutsche Welle linked the retirement to a falling-out or public spat with Portugal coach Jorge Jesus over playing time.
Reporting from 14 identified publishers across this event arc.
