Cristiano Ronaldo is on the verge of making football history after being named in Portugal’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, a move that could see him become the first male player to feature in six different editions of the tournament. Portugal coach Roberto Martínez included the 41-year-old captain in his final squad as the Seleção prepare for another attempt to win the World Cup for the first time.
Ronaldo already holds the men’s all-time international appearance and goalscoring records, with 226 caps and 143 goals for Portugal. The former Real Madrid and Manchester United forward remains one of only six players to have played in five World Cups, alongside longtime rival Lionel Messi, who is also expected to represent Argentina at the tournament.
Despite concerns surrounding his age and the physical demands of international football, Ronaldo’s inclusion had been widely expected due to his continued performances for Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner continues to play a major role for both club and country as Portugal look to challenge for global success.
Martínez also used the squad announcement to pay an emotional tribute to late Portugal international Diogo Jota, who died in a car accident last year. The Portugal coach described Jota’s death as an unforgettable and painful moment for the national team, adding that the players now carry the responsibility of fighting for the dreams and values the forward represented.
“The spirit, the strength, the example of Diogo Jota, the plus one. He will be the plus one forever,” Martínez said during the announcement. The emotional tribute highlighted the impact Jota had on the national team both on and off the pitch.
Portugal’s squad also includes several top stars such as Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, Rúben Dias, Rafael Leão and João Félix. Portugal will compete in Group K alongside DR Congo, Uzbekistan and Colombia at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Elijah Adeyemi
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