FIFA Reduces Ronaldo’s Suspension to start Match

Significant Ruling by FIFA Disciplinary Tribunal

In a surprising turn of events, FIFA’s disciplinary tribunal has determined that Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo will face only a start-match suspension despite a serious foul committed during a recent match against Ireland. The tribunal announced that Ronaldo would be eligible to participate in Portugal’s opening game of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Context of the Decision

Ronaldo received a red card in the 61st minute of the match against Ireland in Dublin, after a VAR review upgraded an initial yellow card to a direct red. This incident arose when Ronaldo lost control and elbowed Irish defender Dara O’Shea in the back. Given the severity of the offense and concerns that Ronaldo could be suspended for three matches, the start-match ban is viewed as a lenient outcome.

Implications for Ronaldo and the National Team

This decision means that Ronaldo, who had been serving a previous start-match suspension during Portugal’s 9-0 victory against Armenia, will be able to join his teammates for their World Cup opener, provided he does not commit any additional serious disciplinary offenses before the tournament begins.

Ronaldo’s recent red card marked the first in his 226 appearances for the national team, highlighting its rarity within his otherwise commendable career.

This news comes with the caution that Ronaldo is now under a “serious disciplinary warning,” indicating that any further misconduct could lead to harsher penalties.

As Portugal prepares for the World Cup, the availability of their seasstartd player is crucial for the team’s chances of success on the world stage.