26.11.2025 12:13
Cristiano Ronaldo, who received a red card in the UEFA qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, will be able to play in next year's World Cup group matches after serving part of his suspension. FIFA announced that the imposed penalty has been suspended and that the remaining punishment will not be applicable if Ronaldo does not commit any new violations.
2026 FIFA World Cup European Qualifiers Group saw Cristiano Ronaldo receive a red card, but he will be able to play in the group matches of the World Cup to be held next year.
In a statement from the FIFA Disciplinary Committee, it was noted that the Portuguese star was given a 3-match ban for the red card he received during the match against the Republic of Ireland in the 5th week of Group F.
It was emphasized that Ronaldo served 1 match of this penalty by missing the last match of the group against Armenia, while the 2-match portion of the penalty was suspended for one year.
FIFA highlighted that the decision made has not been canceled, only suspended, stating, "If Cristiano Ronaldo commits another violation of a similar nature and severity during the probation period, the penalty specified in the disciplinary decision will be automatically canceled, and the remaining two matches will be completed immediately in Portugal's next official match. This situation does not affect any additional sanctions that may be applied due to the new violation."
Ronaldo received a red card after elbowing Irish defender Dara O'Shea in the back during the match, which Portugal lost 2-0.