Portugal’s football federation imposed the minimum suspension under its disciplinary rules after Cristiano Ronaldo left the national team camp without authorisation.
Cristiano Ronaldo has been handed a 30-day suspension and a €255 fine after leaving Portugal’s national team camp during the UEFA Nations League, with the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) imposing the minimum penalty available under its disciplinary regulations.
The FPF announced the punishment on Monday following the departure of the 41-year-old forward from the national team camp on September 30. Ronaldo had reportedly become frustrated over his playing time and later apologised for his actions, accepting responsibility for the incident.
The former Manchester United and Real Madrid star was left disappointed after warming up as a substitute during Portugal’s match against Norway on September 27 without being brought onto the pitch. His frustration reportedly increased when he learned he would not start against Denmark on October 1.
Ronaldo subsequently left the camp and accused coach Jorge Jesus of breaking his word over the playing time he had been promised.
In a statement issued on October 6, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner acknowledged his mistake, expressed remorse and said he was prepared to accept whatever punishment the federation imposed.
The FPF disciplinary committee took his apology into account when determining the penalty. Under federation regulations, players who leave the national team without authorisation can face suspensions ranging from one to six months.
Ronaldo received the minimum suspension under those rules, along with a €255 fine, equivalent to approximately $286.
The suspension took effect from the date of Portugal’s match against Denmark. By the time the decision was announced, Ronaldo had already served 19 days of the ban and was expected to complete the remaining period by the end of October.
The disciplinary action is not expected to affect Portugal’s final two Nations League group matches. Portugal are scheduled to host Denmark on November 14 before travelling to face Wales on November 17, by which time Ronaldo will have completed his suspension.
Portugal have also demonstrated their ability to perform without their captain. The team won all four of its Nations League matches during his absence and secured qualification for the quarterfinals with two games remaining.
Those results have added to the discussion surrounding Ronaldo’s role as he moves into the later stages of his international career. His departure from the camp raised questions about the management of his playing time and his relationship with the coaching staff.
Despite the controversy, Ronaldo remains Portugal’s all-time leading goalscorer and record appearance-maker, making him one of the most prominent figures in the country’s football history.
With the suspension nearing its end, attention is expected to turn to his return to the national squad and how Portugal manage his role in upcoming international competitions.
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