Portugal plan special farewell for Cristiano Ronaldo after international retirement

The Portuguese Football Federation says Cristiano Ronaldo will receive a fitting tribute after the Al Nassr forward announced his final retirement from international football on Thursday.

Ronaldo, Portugal’s captain, made the decision despite previously indicating that he wanted to continue representing his country. His announcement comes around a month after his long-time rival Lionel Messi also confirmed his retirement from international football.

In an official statement, the Portuguese Football Federation expressed its “deepest and most sincere gratitude” to Ronaldo, describing him as the national team’s “eternal captain”.

“With a profound sense of gratitude and immense admiration, the Portuguese Football Federation publicly honours and thanks Cristiano Ronaldo for the extraordinary career through which he served our country,” it said.

The federation highlighted the scale of Ronaldo’s international achievements, noting that he finished his career with 234 caps and 146 goals.

“Our captain was not only an exceptional athlete, but also an inspiring leader, an example of dedication and the ultimate symbol of the spirit of our national team,” the statement added.

“Throughout a legendary international career, marked by 234 appearances and 146 goals, the captain carried the country on his shoulders, broke records and led the team to moments that will remain forever etched in the history of Portuguese football.”

The organisation also paid tribute to Ronaldo’s commitment to the national shirt.

“Every drop of sweat, every decisive goal and every captain’s armband he proudly wore on the pitch reflected his absolute love for our shirt,” it said.

The federation said Ronaldo’s influence extended beyond his performances, adding that he had raised Portugal’s profile and inspired generations of young people who hoped to follow in his footsteps.

“For many of us, he is the greatest player of all time,” it said.

The Portuguese Football Federation said it would not allow Ronaldo’s international farewell to pass without a formal celebration.

“It is our firm and greatest wish to organise, plan, participate in and actively cooperate in what will always be a fitting tribute to Cristiano Ronaldo’s magnificent career,” it said.

“This will allow the fans and the country to applaud and celebrate once again the player who has given us so much.”

Portugal are listed to face Denmark in Nations League – Path 1 on 14 November 2026.

The federation concluded its statement with a message to the departing captain: “Thank you for everything, captain. This will always be your home. Let’s move towards goal 1000.”