Cristiano Ronaldo handed 30-day suspension after Portugal camp walkout

The Portuguese Football Federation has handed Cristiano Ronaldo a 30-day suspension after he left the national team camp amid a dispute with coach Jorge Jesus over his role in the squad.

The 41-year-old Al-Nassr forward was also fined 255 euros (£189) after the federation’s disciplinary council upheld the charge against him in full on Monday, October 19, 2026.

Ronaldo left Portugal’s camp in September ahead of their Nations League fixture against Denmark after reportedly learning he would not start.

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner had previously been an unused substitute in Portugal’s match against Norway, prompting frustration over his involvement in the team.

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In a subsequent statement, Ronaldo explained his decision to leave, accusing Jesus of twice having “broke his word” and describing the situation as an “absolute breach of trust”.

The Portuguese Football Federation provisionally suspended the forward on October 9 before completing its disciplinary proceedings.

According to the federation’s disciplinary council, Ronaldo had intentionally committed an offence under Article 160(1) of its disciplinary regulations.

However, the ruling did not clarify which matches or activities would be affected by the 30-day suspension. It also remains unclear whether the period he has already served under the provisional sanction will count towards the final punishment.

Ronaldo later apologised for failing to acknowledge supporters after the Norway match and for leaving his teammates, while reaffirming his willingness to represent Portugal after serving any punishment arising from the incident.

Portuguese FA president Pedro Proenca has also indicated that the federation wants Ronaldo to return to the national team once the matter has been resolved.

FKA/AM

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