The Portugal National Team is preparing for a historic moment: seeing Cristiano Ronaldo play in his sixth World Cup, a milestone that places him in virtually uncharted territory in international football. But while the world already looks toward Mexico, the United States, and Canada for 2026, another question dominates the conversation: will this be the end of the road for the Portuguese captain?

One More World Cup… and Then What? CR7’s Future with Portugal

At 40 years old in 2026, Cristiano Ronaldo not only remains relevant, he continues to produce numbers and maintain a physical level unthinkable for his age. Under contract with Al Nassr until 2027, his place in elite football seems secure for at least another year. But what’s truly intriguing is that within the Portugal camp, they no longer rule out the possibility of him continuing even beyond the World Cup.

Former footballer Wes Brown, Cristiano’s former teammate at Manchester United, was direct when asked about a possible extension of Ronaldo’s international career:
“If he can contribute something to the team, why not select him? He’s still a reference point for the younger players and wants to help them grow.”

The option of playing in Euro 2028 is also on the table. Ronaldo has always made it clear that his career decisions are not dictated by age, but by performance and his desire to compete.

Ambition Intact: Goals, Records, and One Last Giant Objective

Although Ronaldo himself has said he doesn’t need a World Cup to cement his legacy, no one around him doubts that he wants to win it. Brown put it bluntly: “He’ll want to win it! This is probably his last chance… it’s the biggest trophy of all.”

CR7 is also nearing another monumental milestone: reaching 1,000 official goals, a total that is virtually unattainable for any player. “It would be the cherry on top… Ronaldo would be one of the very few capable of achieving it,” Brown added.

With Portugal awaiting the World Cup draw this December 5 in Washington, D.C., Ronaldo remains focused on what he has always done best: competing, breaking records, and pushing the boundaries of modern football.

How Long Will Cristiano Ronaldo Play?

As long as his physical condition remains elite and his influence within the team stays strong, the door for Ronaldo to continue beyond 2026 remains wide open.
He could play another European Championship, return to Sporting, or even sign an extension in Saudi Arabia.

The only certainty is this: Cristiano Ronaldo’s story has not reached its final chapter… and Portugal still dreams of keeping him a little longer.