For the first time in his international career, Cristiano Ronaldo faces a likely ban from the 2026 World Cup or at least the first game. The 39-year-old player got the red card for his violent conduct during the Portugal vs. Ireland game. Portugal suffered a shocking 2-0 loss to Ireland in their World Cup qualifying match. The referee sent off the star player in the 61st minute after he elbowed Ireland defender Dara O’Shea.
Cristiano Ronaldo was sent off against Ireland
Owing to his altercation with O’Shea, Cristiano Ronaldo now faces the possibility of a ban from the first game of the 2026 World Cup. The 39-year-old received his first red card for Portugal during his 226th appearance, a record in men’s international soccer. However, he has 13 club-level red cards to his name.
Ronaldo faces a tough road as he will miss Portugal’s match against Armenia on Sunday due to the red card. Things could get worse if FIFA decides to impose a ban. Possible ban lengths include 2+ matches for serious foul play and 3+ matches for violent conduct or elbowing. FIFA enforces the ban in competitive games, including the World Cup, and players cannot serve it during friendly matches.
Ronaldo’s presence is crucial for Portugal, which needs a win against Armenia to secure a spot in the World Cup. Portugal entered the game confident about qualifying for the 2026 World Cup. Ireland, however, delivered a rude awakening with two winning goals by Troy Parrott.
Roberto Martínez defended Cristiano Ronaldo, saying, “The red card is just a captain that has never been sent off before in 226 games — I think that just deserves credit — and today, I thought it was a bit harsh because he cares about the team.”
Martínez highlighted that Ronaldo was getting rough-housed in the box for 60 minutes, grabbed, pulled, pushed around, and whatnot. As he tried to get away, it appeared that he had elbowed the Ireland defender. The Portugal coach explained that it was not an elbow, but a full-body move misinterpreted due to the camera angles.
