Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international football, bringing an emotional end to one of the greatest careers in the history of the sport. The Portugal captain confirmed his decision through a social media announcement on Thursday, November 5, 2026, revealing that he would hand back the iconic No. 7 shirt after the November international break.
The announcement marks the end of an extraordinary 23-year journey with the Portuguese national team. At 41, Ronaldo leaves behind an incredible legacy, including international records, major trophies and unforgettable performances on football’s biggest stages.
For millions of fans around the world, the news represents the closing of an important chapter in the career of CR7, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time.
Did Cristiano Ronaldo Retire From International Football?
Yes. Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his intention to retire from international football and end his career with Portugal following the November 2026 international break.
The legendary forward confirmed the decision in an emotional video shared on social media. He explained that giving up the Portugal No. 7 shirt was not an easy decision because of the emotional connection he has developed with his country throughout his career.
“Portugal will always be a part of me,” Ronaldo said in his announcement.
The 41-year-old also thanked his family, supporters, teammates, coaches and everyone who contributed to his journey with the national team.
Although Ronaldo is stepping away from international football, the announcement concerns his Portugal career and should not automatically be interpreted as retirement from club football.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s Emotional Retirement Announcement
Ronaldo described his decision as one that involved both his head and his heart.
In his farewell message, the Portugal superstar reflected on the happiness his performances had brought to supporters over more than two decades.
He said: “If I ever made you happy, if one of my goals ever made you hug someone, forget a worry or feel proud of our country, then it was all worth it.”
Ronaldo also reflected on the responsibility of wearing Portugal’s famous No. 7 shirt for 23 years.
The announcement quickly became a major talking point among football fans, with supporters remembering the goals, celebrations and historic achievements that defined his international career.
Cristiano Ronaldo International Career: Goals and Appearances
Ronaldo’s international statistics highlight his remarkable consistency and longevity.
| Record | Cristiano Ronaldo |
|---|---|
| International appearances | 234 |
| International goals | 146 |
| Years with Portugal | 23 |
| International debut | August 20, 2003 |
| Major international trophy | Euro 2016 |
| Nations League titles | 2019 and 2025 |
| World Cup appearances | 6 editions |
With 234 appearances and 146 goals, Ronaldo finishes his Portugal career as the most-capped player and leading international goalscorer in men’s football.
He made his international debut against Kazakhstan on August 20, 2003. His first international goal came against Greece at Euro 2004, beginning a remarkable journey that would eventually make him a global football icon.
According to the reported statistics, Ronaldo also scored 10 international hat-tricks and twice registered four goals in a single match.
CR7’s Greatest Achievements With Portugal
Ronaldo’s international career was not defined by individual records alone. His biggest achievement came when he helped Portugal win its first major international trophy.
Euro 2016: Portugal’s Historic Triumph
Ronaldo captained Portugal to the European Championship title in 2016, defeating France in the final.
Although he was forced to leave the final through injury, his leadership and contribution throughout the tournament played an important role in Portugal’s historic success.
The victory remains one of the defining moments of his international career.
UEFA Nations League Titles
Ronaldo also helped Portugal win the UEFA Nations League in 2019 and 2025.
These victories further strengthened his legacy as one of the most successful players in Portuguese football history.
Ronaldo’s World Cup and European Championship Records
The FIFA World Cup and UEFA European Championship provided some of the biggest stages for Ronaldo to demonstrate his extraordinary longevity.
At the World Cup, Ronaldo became the first player to score in six different editions of the tournament: 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022 and 2026.
He scored 11 goals across those World Cup appearances.
At the European Championship, Ronaldo holds the all-time scoring record with 14 goals across six tournaments.
These achievements demonstrate how CR7 remained an important figure in international football across different generations of players.
What Happens to Portugal’s No. 7 Shirt After Ronaldo’s Retirement?
Ronaldo’s announcement that he would hand back the No. 7 shirt after the November international break adds another emotional element to his farewell.
The shirt has become closely associated with his identity, performances and achievements for Portugal.
For more than two decades, Ronaldo carried the responsibility of representing his country while wearing the famous number.
His departure will leave Portugal with the challenge of moving forward without one of the most influential players in its football history.
Will Cristiano Ronaldo Retire From Club Football Too?
Ronaldo’s announcement specifically concerns his international career with Portugal.
It does not confirm that he is retiring from professional club football.
The Portuguese superstar has continued his playing career at club level, and his international retirement should be viewed separately from any future decision about ending his overall football career.
Therefore, fans should distinguish between Cristiano Ronaldo’s international retirement and a complete retirement from football.
Cristiano Ronaldo Retirement: The End of an Extraordinary Portugal Era
Cristiano Ronaldo‘s international retirement marks the end of an unforgettable chapter in football history.
From his debut in 2003 to his final international appearances in 2026, Ronaldo transformed himself into Portugal’s greatest goalscorer and most-capped men’s international player.
His 146 goals, 234 appearances, Euro 2016 triumph and two Nations League titles tell the story of an extraordinary career.
More importantly, his influence extended beyond statistics. Ronaldo inspired millions of supporters and helped establish Portugal as a major force in international football.
As CR7 prepares to hand back the No. 7 shirt, his legacy with Portugal will remain part of football history for generations.
Cristiano Ronaldo may be saying goodbye to international football, but his achievements and influence on the game will never be forgotten.
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