Cristiano Ronaldo is at serious risk of missing at least the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after receiving the first red card of his legendary international career.
The unprecedented dismissal has triggered FIFA’s disciplinary process, which based on established regulations could lead to a multi-game suspension. According to FIFA rules, its disciplinary judges must impose:
- A minimum two-match ban for serious foul play, and
- At least a three-match ban for violent conduct, or
- A minimum three-match suspension or longer for assault-related actions, including elbowing.
The severity of the sanction will depend on how the incident is classified by FIFA’s disciplinary panel. Any substantial ban would be a major blow for Portugal, with the 2026 World Cup kicking off in less than a year.
