New Delhi: Portugal legend Cristiano Ronaldo has started preparations for what might turn out to be his last FIFA World Cup for his country. One of the
greatest footballers in the world, Ronaldo, will be leading Portugal in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which is set to get underway on June 11.
Portugal, led by Ronaldo and coached by Roberto Martinez, will start the tournament as one of the favourites, considering the sheer talent and quality in their squad. Despite having turned 41, Ronaldo has been trusted to lead the line for Portugal in the tournament, and the veteran forward will be looking to give his best for the team.
Ahead of joining Portugal’s camp for the FIFA World Cup 2026, Ronaldo shared a message on his Instagram story, expressing his excitement and warning his rivals. “The World Cup mission begins,” Ronaldo wrote in Portuguese with a picture of himself arriving at the team’s camp.
Começa a Missão Mundial! 🇵🇹 pic.twitter.com/wrqGTyuzsC
— Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) June 1, 2026
Ronaldo is set to make a record sixth appearance in the World Cup at the age of 41 as he aims to bring an end to Portugal’s trophy drought. Portugal have never won the FIFA World Cup. Having won nearly every major trophy in his club and international career so far, Ronaldo will be hoping to add the World Cup title to his trophy cabinet.
The 41-year-old is Portugal’s top scorer in international football with 141 goals in 226 appearances and will be looking to add to his tally in the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026. Ronaldo will spearhead Portugal’s attack, consisting of the likes of Rafael Leao, Goncalo Ramos, Pedro Neto, Joao Felix and Francisco Conceicao, among others.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s current form
Ronaldo is heading into the FIFA World Cup 2026 on the back of fine form after helping his club Al-Nassr win the Saudi Pro League title. The Portugal captain played a key role in the triumph with 34 goals in 42 matches for Al Nassr across competitions. He also racked up four assists for the club.
Ronaldo scored twice in Al-Nassr’s 4-1 win over Damac that sealed their triumph in the Saudi Pro League 2025-26 season. It was Ronaldo’s first Saudi Pro League title since joining the club in January 2023. The 41-year-old will now look to continue his prolific run in front of the goal for Portugal to help them win their maiden FIFA World Cup crown.
