The Portuguese Football Federation has announced a special tribute to Cristiano Ronaldo’s legendary No. 7 jersey, honoring his remarkable career with a newly redesigned version of the iconic number.
Debuting for the Nations League match against Denmark, the new design will feature a subtle line running through the center of the No. 7. This detail symbolizes Ronaldo’s achievements while complying with FIFA regulations, which prohibit the formal retirement of jersey numbers in international football.
“This is yet another way to immortalize the meaning of such a special number and honor the legacy it represents,” Portugal FA said in a statement. “"Because there are stories, memories, achievements and emotions that will forever be linked to Cristiano
Ronaldo. From today onwards, we will have a different number 7 on the jersey, but with the same essence and the same pride, reserving the previous one for the immortalization of a story that will never be forgotten."
Ronaldo is the Portugal's all-time leading scorer, a five-time Ballon d’Or winner and the only player to reach over 230 international appearances for the national team.
Ronaldo announced his retirement from international duty earlier this month, following a publicized dispute and fallout with Portugal’s head coach, Jorge Jesus, over playing time and his role in the squad.
With the changes to the design, it remains unknown who will inherit the iconic No. 7 jersey for Portugal following Ronaldo’s retirement.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Portugal FA honors Cristiano Ronaldo's No. 7 jersey with redesign
