Cristiano Ronaldo is in danger of missing part of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after receiving his first-ever red card in international football.
During Portugal’s 2–0 defeat to the Republic of Ireland, Ronaldo was shown a yellow card for elbowing defender Dara O’Shea but after a VAR review, the decision was upgraded to a red.
Under FIFA disciplinary rules, Ronaldo is automatically suspended for one game which he will serve in Portugal’s upcoming match against Armenia.
However, the governing body could impose a longer ban: guidelines allow for three-match suspensions for “violent conduct” such as elbowing.
FIFA is reportedly taking up to three weeks to decide the final length of Ronaldo’s ban.
The timing of the suspension could be significant. If Portugal qualify for the World Cup and the ban is extended, Ronaldo risks missing their first matches of what he has previously stated may be his final tournament.
