Portugal captain, Cristiano Ronaldo, is on the verge of making football history after being included in his country’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The 41-year-old forward is set to become the first male player to appear in six different editions of the tournament if he features for Portugal at the competition.
Portugal head coach Roberto Martínez named Ronaldo in his final squad as the Seleção continue their quest to win the World Cup for the first time.
Ronaldo already holds the men’s records for most international appearances and goals, having registered 226 caps and 143 goals for Portugal.
The former Real Madrid and Manchester United star is currently among six players to have featured in five World Cups, alongside Argentina captain Lionel Messi, who is also expected to play at this year’s tournament.
Despite concerns surrounding his age, Ronaldo’s inclusion was never seriously in doubt, with the five-time Ballon d’Or winner still active at Al-Nassr.
Martínez also paid tribute to former Portugal forward Diogo Jota, who died in a car accident last year.
“The final list includes 27 names plus one,” Martínez said.
“To lose Diogo Jota was an unforgettable and very difficult moment. But after that, we had the responsibility to continue fighting for his dream and for everything he represented in the national team.
“The spirit, strength and example of Diogo Jota will remain with us forever. He will always be the plus one.”
Portugal’s squad also features key players including Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, Rúben Dias, Rafael Leão and João Félix.
Portugal will face DR Congo, Uzbekistan and Colombia in Group K of the World Cup.
Ahead of the tournament, the European side are expected to play friendly matches against Chile and Nigeria as part of their preparations.
Portugal’s 2026 FIFA World Cup squad
Goalkeepers: Diogo Costa, José Sá, Rui Silva, Ricardo Velho.
Defenders: Diogo Dalot, Matheus Nunes, Rúben Dias, Nélson Semedo, João Cancelo, Nuno Mendes, Gonçalo Inácio, Renato Veiga, Tomás Araújo.
Midfielders: Rúben Neves, Samu Costa, João Neves, Vitinha, Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva.
Forwards: Cristiano Ronaldo, João Félix, Francisco Trincão, Francisco Conceição, Pedro Neto, Rafael Leão, Gonçalo Guedes, Gonçalo Ramos.
