Cristiano Ronaldo is serving a temporary international suspension, but the Portugal captain could receive a reduced final punishment after the Portuguese Football Federation’s disciplinary council considers the circumstances surrounding his departure from the national team camp.
The suspension took effect automatically when Ronaldo left the Portugal camp in Denmark last week, in line with the federation’s regulations. However, the length of the final ban has yet to be decided.
According to ESPN, the Portuguese Football Federation’s disciplinary council must still meet to rule on the case. The available sanction is understood to range from one to six months away from international football.
The council will assess all the circumstances that could mitigate Ronaldo’s punishment. Among the most significant factors is the public apology issued by the Portugal forward last Tuesday.
If Ronaldo receives the minimum one-month suspension, the number seven will remain available for selection by Portugal manager Jorge Jesus for the team’s next two Nations League fixtures. Portugal are due to face Wales and Denmark on 14 and 17 November respectively.
A three-month ban would have a more limited effect. Under that scenario, Ronaldo would miss both of those matches but would be eligible to return for the Nations League quarter-finals in March 2027. Portugal’s opponent at that stage has not yet been determined.
A six-month suspension is considered highly unlikely, with several factors expected to work in Ronaldo’s favour during the internal assessment. Those include his long record of success with Portugal over a career spanning more than 20 years.
Portugal have already secured their place in the final stage of the 2026-27 Nations League. Their remaining objective is to confirm top spot in Group 4 of League A, or qualify from second place.
The disciplinary council’s decision will therefore determine whether Ronaldo’s absence is restricted to the immediate Nations League games or extends into the knockout phase of the competition.