Cristiano Ronaldo is preparing to bring his international career with the Portugal national team to a close after the 2026 FIFA World Cup, after his sister Katia Aveiro revealed that the current tournament will be his last in the national shirt, confirming he will not participate in UEFA Euro 2028.
Katia Aveiro said in statements to Sport TV that the information available to her indicates that the current World Cup represents Ronaldo's final appearance with the Portugal national team, describing it as "the last dance", and expressed her confidence in the team's ability to get past Croatia and continue its journey towards competing for the title.
The Portugal captain is preparing to face Croatia in the round of 32 at the World Cup, and the statistics platform Opta noted that he will become the first player to feature in a World Cup knockout-stage match at the age of 41, the moment the match kicks off.
Ronaldo is set to end his international career as Portugal's all-time top scorer with 145 goals, and the holder of the most international appearances in the national shirt after playing 232 matches. He also led his country to three major titles: UEFA Euro 2016 and the UEFA Nations League in 2019 and 2025.
Katia Aveiro responded to the criticism her brother has faced in recent times, affirming that football fans recognise the value of what he has contributed over nearly two decades, and that such criticism will not affect his happiness or his family's happiness at what he has achieved throughout his career.
Ronaldo's sister expressed her pride in his journey, which began with the Portugal national team in 2003, noting that she sensed great confidence and a positive mental state in him ahead of the match against Croatia.
Ronaldo's participation in the 2026 World Cup has drawn criticism due to his level of performance in the matches against the Democratic Republic of Congo and Colombia, while reports have also spoken of discontent within the Portugal camp regarding the role the player occupies within the team.
Katia Aveiro concluded her remarks by affirming Portugal's readiness to face any opponent in the tournament, noting that the team is also prepared to meet Spain in the round of 16 should they advance to the next round.