With the draw for the 2026 FIFA World Cup now official, Portugal head coach Roberto Martínez reflected on the role of team captain Cristiano Ronaldo as the squad prepares for the prestigious tournament. Ronaldo, at 40 years old, will make history by playing in his sixth World Cup, which will be held across Mexico, Canada, and the United States. Portugal is placed in Group K, alongside Colombia and Uzbekistan, with the fourth team to be determined in March 2026.
In the wake of the draw, Martínez took the opportunity to praise Ronaldo’s remarkable work ethic and leadership, acknowledging his enduring hunger for success even at the tail end of his international career.
Ronaldo’s Legacy and Leadership
Martínez didn’t hold back in his admiration for Ronaldo, emphasizing that the Portuguese captain continues to serve as a vital example both on and off the field. Despite his age, Ronaldo’s commitment to excellence and competitive spirit remain unmatched, with Martínez highlighting his influence on the younger generation of players.
Portugal HC Roberto Martínez joined @JennyTaft to talk about Ronaldo and the confidence in his team for their group in the FIFA World Cup. pic.twitter.com/q2dh4GIdVf
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) December 5, 2025
“What can I say about our captain? He is someone who sets an example for the game,” Martínez said during an interview with FOX Sports’ Jenny Taft. “Age doesn’t take away his hunger to be the best. His presence is contagious, and he’s extremely helpful to the younger players.”
Ronaldo’s importance to the squad extends beyond his goal-scoring ability. While the 40-year-old forward has an impressive record of 25 goals in 30 international appearances, Martínez stressed that it is the values Ronaldo instills and the standards he sets that make him a truly unique figure in the world of football.
Ronaldo’s Final World Cup: Aiming for Glory
As he prepares for his final World Cup appearance, Ronaldo has his sights set on securing his first World Cup title. The legendary forward, who has already appeared in 14 group-stage matches and 8 knockout games, is hoping to leave a lasting legacy in what will likely be his last appearance on the global stage. Ronaldo has scored 8 goals and provided 2 assists in his previous World Cup campaigns, and with the 2026 tournament on the horizon, he is eager to add to those numbers.
Although Ronaldo’s participation in the tournament was briefly in doubt after a red card and three-game ban for elbowing an Ireland player during a qualifying match, he has since returned to full eligibility. After serving a one-game suspension in Portugal’s final qualifier—a dominant 9-1 win over Armenia—FIFA confirmed that the remaining two games of his ban would be deferred to a one-year probation period, ensuring his availability for the World Cup.
