Veteran striker Cristiano Ronaldo will lead Portugal at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after coach Roberto Martinez named the 41-year-old in his 26-man squad on Tuesday.
The former Real Madrid and Manchester United star, who now plays for Saudi club Al Nassr, is set to appear at a record sixth World Cup, extending his historic international career.
Portugal, however, are still chasing their first-ever World Cup title, with Ronaldo remaining the nation’s all-time leading scorer on 143 international goals.
He could potentially face long-time rival Lionel Messi, who is also expected to feature at a sixth World Cup after leading Argentina to victory in Qatar 2022.
Ronaldo avoided a suspension despite a red card in Portugal’s final qualifying match against the Republic of Ireland, where he was sent off for an elbow challenge.
Martinez named a largely expected squad featuring a strong blend of experience and youth, including Ronaldo’s club teammate João Félix and goalkeeper Ricardo Velho as an additional squad member.
Key players include Paris Saint-Germain trio Vitinha, João Neves and Gonçalo Ramos, as well as Manchester United midfielder Bruno Fernandes and Manchester City stars Bernardo Silva and Rúben Dias.
Martinez said Ronaldo does not require special management despite his age and experience.
“At a World Cup, a player doesn’t follow the pattern of club form or age-related performance,” he said.
“The focus is our group. All of them are prepared for the demands of a World Cup.”
The coach also acknowledged the emotional toll of the season but said international duty offers a mental reset for players.
“The national team brings new energy and allows you to completely switch off from what happened during the season,” Martinez added.
He confirmed that goalkeeper Ricardo Velho will serve as the fourth-choice option and will only be used in case of injury.
Martinez also paid tribute to late striker Diogo Jota, who died in a car crash in July 2025, saying his presence remains symbolic within the squad.
“The spirit, strength, and example of Diogo Jota is our plus one,” he said.
Portugal will warm up for the tournament with friendly matches against Chile and Nigeria before beginning their World Cup campaign against DR Congo on June 17.
They are drawn in Group K alongside Uzbekistan and Colombia.
