Portuguese football star Cristiano Ronaldo is facing a possible six-month suspension after leaving Portugal's national team camp in Copenhagen. The disciplinary regulations of the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) state that a player who leaves or fails to attend national-team training, matches or other activities without justification can be suspended for between one and six months. This rule applies to players who have been properly called up.
Ronaldo left Portugal's camp on Wednesday, one day before the Nations League match against Denmark. The 41-year-old announced his decision after speaking with FPF president Pedro Proença and following head coach Jorge Jesus' press conference. Ronaldo said he would explain the reasons for his decision at a later date. The FPF confirmed his departure but offered no explanation for it.
The FPF's disciplinary regulations also state that an absence or departure can trigger an automatic provisional suspension while the disciplinary process is handled. If Ronaldo's departure is formally considered "unjustified," he could face a fine of between five and 10 accounting units, equivalent to approximately €510 to €1,020. However, the key issue would be whether Ronaldo's departure is formally considered "unjustified."
The situation followed several days of reported tension between Ronaldo and Jesus. Ronaldo remained an unused substitute during Portugal's 2-1 victory over Norway on Sunday despite warming up. Jesus later said he had originally planned to introduce the forward before changing his decision based on the course of the match. Ronaldo also did not take part in Portugal's pitch session on Tuesday.
The FPF has not announced a disciplinary case or confirmed that any suspension has been imposed. Preparations for the matches against Denmark and Norway continued with the remaining 24 players. The FPF said Ronaldo instead completed specific gym work and there was no indication of an injury. Any potential disciplinary consequences will now depend on how the FPF formally assesses the circumstances surrounding his departure.
The incident has sparked widespread media attention, with many speculating about the reasons behind Ronaldo's departure. Some reports suggest that Ronaldo had a disagreement with Jesus over his role in the team. Others have suggested that Ronaldo may be considering retirement from international football. However, no official explanation has been given for his departure.
The Portuguese Football Federation will now investigate the circumstances surrounding Ronaldo's departure and determine whether disciplinary action is necessary. If a suspension is imposed, it could have significant implications for Ronaldo's future with the national team. The FPF's decision is expected to be announced in the coming days.
Key points
- Ronaldo faces a possible six-month suspension for leaving Portugal's national team camp without justification.
- The Portuguese Football Federation's disciplinary regulations state that a player who leaves or fails to attend national-team training, matches or other activities without justification can be suspended for between one and six months.
- The FPF has not announced a disciplinary case or confirmed that any suspension has been imposed.
