Cristiano Ronaldo has sidestepped a potential World Cup nightmare after FIFA deferred part of his three-match suspension for a red card incident in November 2025. The Portugal captain will now likely avoid missing any games at the 2026 World Cup in North America, keeping his record sixth tournament appearance on track. 🎯
The Probation Play
FIFA's ruling, announced Tuesday, imposes a one-match ban (already served) and holds two additional games in probation until November 2026. This means Ronaldo could face those suspended matches only if he commits another serious foul before the World Cup ends. ⚖️
Why It Matters
With Portugal qualifying for the 2026 tournament last week, fans were bracing for Ronaldo to start on the bench. But FIFA's rare probation move gives the 40-year-old striker breathing room. Critics argue the decision contrasts with recent bans for players from Armenia and Burundi in similar cases. 🤔
What's Next?
Portugal has friendlies in March 2026 and pre-tournament warmups before the June 11 World Cup kickoff. Ronaldo’s discipline will be under a global microscope – one wrong move could bench him during critical matches. 🎥
While the ruling is technically appealable, it’s unclear who would challenge it. For now, football’s living legend remains on thin ice… but still on the pitch. ❄️⚽
