Cristiano Ronaldo Named in Portugal’s 2026 World Cup Squad

Portugal’s final squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup has once again placed Cristiano Ronaldo at the center of global attention. At 41, the veteran forward is preparing for a record sixth World Cup appearance — a milestone no male footballer has achieved before.

Head coach Roberto Martínez unveiled a 27-man squad on Tuesday, blending established stars with emerging talent as Portugal prepare for another push toward an elusive World Cup title.

Alongside Ronaldo, the squad includes key names such as Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, Rúben Dias, Vitinha, João Neves and Nuno Mendes, underlining the depth and experience within the Portuguese setup ahead of the tournament.

For Ronaldo, this World Cup is widely expected to be the final chapter of his international career. During an interview with CNN last year, the Portuguese captain hinted that the 2026 edition would “certainly” be his last World Cup appearance.

Even after more than two decades at the top level, Ronaldo remains central to Portugal’s ambitions. He is still the country’s all-time leader in both appearances and goals, with 226 caps and 143 international goals. He also remains the only player in men’s football history to score in five separate World Cups.

An emotional squad announcement for Portugal

The squad reveal also carried an emotional undertone following the death of forward Diogo Jota, who died in a car crash in Spain in 2025.

Martínez described the national team as a group playing with a “plus one,” saying Jota’s energy, commitment and spirit continue to live within the squad despite his absence.

Portugal have also included fourth-choice goalkeeper Ricardo Velho, who will travel with the team as standby cover in case of injury to any of the primary goalkeepers.

Portugal grouped with Colombia, Uzbekistan and DR Congo

Portugal have been placed in Group K alongside Colombia, Uzbekistan and Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Their World Cup campaign will begin on June 17 in Houston against DR Congo before facing Uzbekistan and Colombia in the remaining group-stage fixtures.

Portugal squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup

• Goalkeepers: Diogo Costa, José Sá, Rui Silva
• Defenders: Diogo Dalot, Matheus Nunes, Nélson Semedo, João Cancelo, Nuno Mendes, Gonçalo Inácio, Renato Veiga, Rúben Dias, Tomás Araújo
• Midfielders: Rúben Neves, Samuel Costa, João Neves, Vitinha, Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva
• Forwards: João Félix, Francisco Trincão, Francisco Conceição, Pedro Neto, Rafael Leão, Gonçalo Guedes, Gonçalo Ramos, Cristiano Ronaldo