FIFA’s controversial decision to suspend Cristiano Ronaldo’s World Cup ban could lead to legal action, as nations consider appealing the ruling to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
Cristiano Ronaldo is now eligible to play in Portugal’s 2026 World Cup opener after FIFA took the “unprecedented step” of suspending the majority of his three-match ban.
The 40-year-old star had been sent off for “violent conduct” after elbowing Ireland defender Dara O’Shea during Portugal’s 2-0 defeat on November 13, marking his first red card in 226 appearances for his country.
FIFA’s disciplinary verdict imposed a three-game suspension, but two of those matches were deferred for a one-year probationary period, citing rules that allow for sanctions to be probationary.
Ronaldo served the mandatory one-game ban when Portugal clinched qualification with a 9-1 victory over Armenia last week.
The decision allows him to participate in what is expected to be his record sixth World Cup, starting June 11.
The ruling, however, has drawn criticism regarding its timing. According to a report from The Daily Mail, “Cristiano Ronaldo will play in the World Cup opener: FIFA allows Portugal to field their star man in an unprecedented decision, despite his red card for violent conduct against Ireland – just a week after his meeting with US President Donald Trump.”
The controversy could escalate, as nations drawn to face Portugal are reportedly considering a legal challenge.
Rivals “could consider taking the issue to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS)” to overturn the controversial verdict and enforce the original punishment, which would rule the veteran out of the initial World Cup fixtures.