Cristiano Ronaldo says 2026 will probably be his final year in football

Cristiano Ronaldo says 2026 will probably be his final year as a professional footballer, bringing his playing career closer to an end after more than 950 goals for club and country. The 41-year-old Portugal captain revealed his thinking in an interview published by Vogue on Sunday.

Ronaldo has previously suggested that retirement could come soon or within one or two years. His latest comments give a clearer indication that he expects to leave the game during 2026, although the word “probably” leaves the timing short of a definitive announcement.

The former Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus forward said he wants to complete his career in a way that leaves a lasting impression. He also said his life after football was already planned, with travel and padel among the activities he expects to pursue.

Ronaldo acknowledged that stopping football could create a major gap in his daily life. He said that space would need to be filled with several interests rather than a single pursuit, while also describing the past 25 years as a period marked by significant sacrifice and achievement.

His next football commitment is with Al Nassr, who are preparing for the new Saudi Pro League season. Ronaldo is due to return to the Saudi club after Portugal’s campaign at his final World Cup this summer ended in the last 16.

The forward’s career includes spells at Sporting, Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus and Al Nassr, as well as more than two decades with Portugal. His international and club scoring record has placed him among football’s most accomplished players, making any decision to retire one of the sport’s major departures.