Portugal FA president hails Cristiano Ronaldo’s legacy after international retirement

Pedro Proenca, president of the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF), has thanked Cristiano Ronaldo following the Portugal captain’s announcement that he is retiring from international football.

Proenca said the organisation’s doors would remain open to Ronaldo, whose international career has been defined by major achievements and records.

In a personal message posted on Instagram, alongside the FPF’s official statement on Ronaldo’s decision, Proenca described the Al-Nassr forward as far more than a footballer.

“Cristiano Ronaldo will always be more than just a player for Portugal; he is a man, an athlete, a role model, a hero and a leader… he is our leader,” Proenca wrote.

He added: “On the day he announces his retirement from the national team, on behalf of the Portuguese Football Federation and the entire Portuguese football family, we thank Cristiano Ronaldo for everything he has given us, which is a great deal.”

Ronaldo leaves Portugal as the country’s most-capped player and all-time leading scorer. Proenca said his influence extended well beyond victories, trophies and individual records, and that he had helped take Portugal’s identity to audiences around the world.

“Apart from the victories, the cups and the records, and apart from his status as our most-capped player and all-time top scorer, the example he set will remain a source of inspiration,” he said.

“He took Portugal to the whole world, and everywhere on this planet, the name Cristiano Ronaldo was present whenever Portugal was mentioned.

“He was a role model for everyone who dreams of becoming better every day.”

Proenca also acknowledged the personal relationship he had developed with Ronaldo during the past 18 months, thanking him for his support, conversations and close cooperation.

“As president of the Portuguese Football Federation, I thank Cristiano Ronaldo for all the support he has shown over the past year and a half, and for the conversations and close relationship we have shared,” he said.

“The doors of the Portuguese Football Federation will always be open to Cristiano Ronaldo. Thank you for everything, and for all that you have given. You will always be our leader.”

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