Cristiano Ronaldo Could Face World Cup Suspension as Red Card Sparks Disciplinary Review

Cristiano Ronaldo’s red card in Portugal’s defeat to the Republic of Ireland could threaten his participation at what may be his final World Cup.

Cristiano Ronaldo may miss matches at the 2026 World Cup after being sent off during Portugal’s 2–0 loss to the Republic of Ireland in Dublin on Thursday — a dismissal that could trigger further disciplinary action from FIFA.

The 40-year-old forward received a straight red card following a VAR review of an off-the-ball incident with Ipswich Town defender Dara O’Shea inside the penalty area. The decision has proved controversial and now places Portugal’s captain at risk of a multi-match suspension.

Ronaldo will automatically miss Portugal’s final World Cup qualifier on Sunday. Portugal remain in control of their qualifying group, with a win guaranteeing automatic progression to the tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

However, under FIFA’s disciplinary regulations, Ronaldo could receive additional matches added to his ban if the incident is deemed an act of assault — potentially ruling him out of Portugal’s opening one or two group-stage games at the World Cup.

What Happened During Ronaldo’s Red Card Incident?

Portugal, already trailing 2–0, won a free-kick in a dangerous position. As Ronaldo jostled for space, he reacted angrily to O’Shea’s hands on his back, swinging his elbow into the Irish defender’s shoulder blades.

O’Shea went to ground, prompting the referee initially to issue Ronaldo a yellow card. The Portugal captain protested, gesturing dramatically towards the official and mimicking tears in O’Shea’s direction.

VAR official Pol van Boekel invited referee Glenn Nyberg to review the footage on the pitch-side monitor. After consultation, the yellow card was upgraded to a straight red.

How Ronaldo Could Be Suspended for the World Cup

FIFA’s Disciplinary Code states that players receiving a red card for “assault, including elbowing, punching, kicking, biting, spitting or hitting an opponent,” may be banned for up to three matches.

Although Ronaldo’s action was clearly an elbow, the interpretation of “assault” leaves scope for leniency — something Portugal manager Roberto Martínez is expected to push for. Ronaldo’s global profile may also result in closer scrutiny of the incident.

Portugal face Armenia in their final qualifier. They currently lead Group F by two points ahead of Hungary. Defeat could leave the door open for Hungary or the Republic of Ireland to overtake them and potentially force Portugal into the play-offs.

When Will Ronaldo Learn the Length of His Ban?

According to the Associated Press’ Graham Dunbar, Ronaldo is likely to wait up to three weeks for FIFA to issue its ruling. The expectation is that the forward could receive a two- or three-match suspension, though no official verdict has yet been made.

Ronaldo’s Disciplinary Record

Martínez is expected to argue Ronaldo’s case by highlighting the veteran’s impeccable disciplinary record with Portugal. Remarkably, this is the first red card of his international career.

At club level, however, Ronaldo has been dismissed 12 times:

• 4 for Manchester United

• 6 for Real Madrid

• 1 for Juventus

• 1 in Saudi Arabia during the 2023–24 season

As the world waits for FIFA’s judgment, doubts linger over whether one of football’s greatest icons may see his last World Cup curtailed before it even begins.