Cristiano Ronaldo has been fined €255 and handed a 30-day suspension by the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) following his departure from Portugal’s national team camp in September.
The disciplinary action followed the forward’s decision to leave the squad after being an unused substitute in Portugal’s match against Norway and learning that he would not start against Denmark on October 1.
Ronaldo subsequently defended his actions, accusing Portugal coach Jorge Jesus of breaking his word on two occasions and describing the situation as an “absolute breach of trust”.
The Al-Nassr captain also accepted responsibility for his departure, apologising to his teammates and supporters while acknowledging that he deserved to be punished.
Why Ronaldo Was Punished
In its disciplinary decision, the FPF said it considered several factors when determining the sanction, including Ronaldo’s expression of remorse, his contributions to football and his achievements throughout his career.
The committee also disclosed that the forward submitted his curriculum vitae as part of his defence, detailing his awards and accomplishments in the game.
Although the federation imposed a 30-day suspension, the punishment will not affect Ronaldo’s availability for Portugal’s upcoming fixtures because it took effect on the day of the Denmark match.
He has already served 19 days of the suspension, according to the report.
Ronaldo’s Dispute With Portugal Coach
The incident has exposed tensions between Ronaldo and Jesus over the forward’s role in the national team.
Ronaldo maintained that the coach broke promises made to him, prompting his decision to leave the camp. Jesus, however, denied reaching any agreement with the player.
Despite the disagreement, the coach has indicated that Ronaldo could return to the national team, leaving the possibility of a reconciliation open.
FPF president Pedro Proença has also expressed the federation’s desire to welcome the veteran forward back once the disciplinary issue has been resolved.
Speaking to Portuguese publication Record, Proença said there was a “strong desire” to see Ronaldo return.
Suspension Will Not Affect Upcoming Portugal Matches
Portugal’s next fixtures include a Nations League meeting with Denmark on November 14, followed by an away match against Wales three days later.
With the suspension already taking effect, Ronaldo is not expected to miss those matches because of the disciplinary sanction.
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His possible return, however, remains tied to the resolution of the dispute surrounding his departure from the national team camp.
Ronaldo’s Legacy With Portugal
Despite the controversy, Ronaldo remains Portugal’s record men’s international goalscorer and appearance holder, with 146 goals in 234 matches.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner played a central role in Portugal’s triumph at Euro 2016 and the country’s two Nations League title victories.
At club level, he joined Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr in December 2022 on a reported annual salary of £177 million before signing a contract extension in 2025.
The latest disciplinary action adds another chapter to Ronaldo’s long international career, with attention now turning to whether he and the Portuguese coaching staff can resolve their differences ahead of the country’s next fixtures.