Cristiano Ronaldo Likely to Avoid Missing World Cup Matches After FIFA's Probation Decision

Cristiano Ronaldo is expected to play in the World Cup despite a FIFA-imposed three-game ban, with two games deferred under probation. He has already served one match suspension.

Cristiano Ronaldo is unlikely to miss any World Cup matches for Portugal despite receiving a red card in a qualifying match against Ireland. FIFA announced a disciplinary decision on Tuesday, imposing a three-game suspension, with two games deferred for a year-long probation. Ronaldo already served a one-game ban during Portugal's final qualifier, a 9-1 victory over Armenia, securing their World Cup spot in North America.

Ronaldo was initially expected to face an additional game suspension, potentially starting his record sixth World Cup on the bench. However, FIFA stated that if Ronaldo commits another similar offense during the probation period, the remaining two-game ban would be enforced. FIFA oversees national team games, and Portugal is set to play two friendlies in March and possibly more warmup matches in late May or June.

FIFA Disciplinary Verdict and Probation

The World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, begins on June 11. Ronaldo's incident involved elbowing Ireland defender Dara O'Shea during a 2-0 loss in Dublin two weeks ago. The FIFA ruling came shortly after Ronaldo met U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House for a formal dinner with Saudi Arabia's crown prince Mohammed bin Salman. FIFA president Gianni Infantino also attended and took a selfie with Ronaldo.

Ronaldo has been playing in the Saudi league for three years with a club primarily owned by Saudi Arabia's sovereign wealth fund, chaired by the crown prince. Saudi Arabia will host the 2034 World Cup and has been a significant financial supporter of FIFA over the past two years. FIFA mentioned that "the three-match suspension is subject to appeal to the FIFA Appeal Committee."

Potential Appeals and Future Matches

It remains unclear who might have legal standing to challenge this decision, whether it could be Ireland's soccer federation or Portugal's World Cup opponents. Trump is expected to attend the draw ceremony on December 5 at the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C., where Portugal will discover its group-stage opponents among the tournament's top seeds.

Portugal's upcoming schedule includes friendly matches in March and likely additional warmup games before the World Cup kicks off. The disciplinary action against Ronaldo highlights FIFA's authority over international matches and its commitment to maintaining fair play standards.

The situation underscores Ronaldo's significant role in both his national team and his club career in Saudi Arabia. As one of football's most prominent figures, his actions on and off the field continue to draw global attention.

With inputs from PTI