Portuguese football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to an extraordinary career representing Portugal.

The 41-year-old made the announcement on Thursday, November 5, 2026, through a social media message, saying it was time to hand over responsibility to the next generation.

“Today, the time has come to pass it on to the future,” Ronaldo said, describing the decision as a difficult one.

Ronaldo also confirmed that he would hand back Portugal’s famous number 7 shirt after the November international break.

An extraordinary international career

Ronaldo leaves Portugal’s national team as one of the greatest international footballers in history.

He made 234 appearances for his country and scored an incredible 146 goals, making him the record holder for both international appearances and goals in men’s football.

His international journey began in 2003, and over more than two decades, he became the face of Portuguese football.

One of the biggest highlights of his career was captaining Portugal to victory at the 2016 European Championship.

He also helped his country win the UEFA Nations League in 2019.

A legacy that will be difficult to replace

Ronaldo’s retirement marks the end of an important chapter in Portuguese football.

His leadership, goal-scoring ability, determination and remarkable consistency made him a global sporting icon.

For millions of supporters around the world, his departure from international football represents the end of an era.

Is Ronaldo retiring from all football?

Despite announcing his international retirement, Ronaldo has not announced that he is ending his professional club career.

The Portuguese superstar remains associated with Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr, meaning supporters could still see him playing at club level.

His decision concerns his future with Portugal’s national team rather than an immediate end to his entire football career.

As one of football’s most celebrated players prepares to close his international chapter, attention will now turn to the next generation of Portuguese stars expected to carry the national team’s hopes.

Cristiano Ronaldo leaves behind a remarkable international record of 146 goals in 234 appearances, a legacy that will be remembered for generations.