Lagos, Nigeria — As preparations continue for the 2026 FIFA World Cup scheduled to be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, Portuguese football star Cristiano Ronaldo is poised to enter the record books as one of the oldest players to participate in the global tournament.
The Portugal national team captain turned 41 on Wednesday, February 5, 2026, and has indicated that the upcoming competition will be his sixth and final appearance at the FIFA World Cup. Ronaldo currently plays club football for Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr and remains active at the highest level of the sport.
Okay News reports that Ronaldo’s potential participation highlights his remarkable longevity in professional football, a trait that has defined his career across multiple decades. If selected for Portugal’s squad, he will join an exclusive list of veteran players who competed at advanced ages on football’s biggest stage.
Among the oldest players in FIFA World Cup history is Egyptian goalkeeper Essam El Hadary, who played at 45 during the 2018 tournament. Colombian goalkeeper Faryd Mondragón featured at 43 in 2014, while Cameroon forward Roger Milla played at 42 in 1994.
Other notable veteran participants include Northern Ireland goalkeeper Pat Jennings, who appeared at 41 in 1986, and England’s Peter Shilton, who played at 40 in 1990. Italy’s legendary goalkeeper Dino Zoff captained his country to victory at age 40 in 1982.
Tunisia’s Ali Boumnijel also competed at 40 in 2006, while Scotland goalkeeper Jim Leighton appeared at 39 in 1998.
Ronaldo’s involvement in the 2026 tournament would underline his enduring influence in world football and reinforce his place among players whose careers have spanned several generations. His expected presence also offers Portugal experience and leadership heading into what he has described as his final appearance on the global stage.
