Ronaldo now eligible for World Cup opener after avoiding FIFA punishment

Portugal have received a major boost to their World Cup ambitions, as Cristiano Ronaldo will be eligible for the opening match of the tournament, after his red card in the 2-0 defeat to the Republic of Ireland sparked legitimate concerns about his availability. 

The 40-year-old received the first red card of his international career after he hit Ireland's Dara O’Shea with his elbow. He subsequently missed the final World Cup qualifier against Armenia as a consequence. 

However, as Pulse Sports reported, Ronaldo risked missing more games due to suspension. FIFA’s disciplinary guidelines stipulate that a two-match ban is mandatory for serious foul play, while violent conduct requires at least three games or more, depending on intent.

Hence, depending on the judgement of the FIFA disciplinary committee, Ronaldo risked missing some or all of Portugal's group stage games at the World Cup, as pre-tournament friendlies do not count towards the suspension. 

According to ESPN, Ronaldo has avoided further punishment, as FIFA's disciplinary committee issued him a one-match ban, which he had already served against Armenia. 

This means that his foul on O’Shea was deemed not to have crossed the threshold of serious play. Ronaldo is expected to lead Selecao at the 2026 World Cup next year, which will be his sixth for Portugal. He played his first World Cup game 19 years ago at the 2006 World Cup.