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Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) president Pedro Proenca has addressed the growing question of whether Cristiano Ronaldo will still be leading the line for Portugal when the nation co-hosts the 2030 FIFA World Cup. Although the Al-Nassr forward continues to be the focal point of the national team, discussions surrounding his longevity remain a prominent topic in football circles.

Ronaldo’s prospects for the 2030 World Cup

As Portugal prepares to share hosting duties for the 2030 World Cup, speculation has intensified about the possibility of Ronaldo still featuring on the pitch. However, Proenca has urged fans to manage their expectations, pointing out that the physical demands of the sport make an appearance at 45 years of age highly improbable. Speaking at the Bola Branca Conference, he noted that while Ronaldo’s professionalism and fitness are unmatched, the realities of ageing cannot be ignored.

“I’ll say that, physiologically, it would take a huge surprise for him to be part of another World Cup. And as for the European Championship, that will depend on who’s in charge at the time, how the player is performing, and other technical factors which it’s not the time to discuss now. What I can say with certainty is that the best players at that moment will represent the national team. Cristiano Ronaldo will always be intrinsically connected to the national team and to the federation. Whether as a player or in another capacity, the identity of the Portuguese Football Federation and the national team is deeply intertwined with Cristiano Ronaldo’s brand,” Proenca stated.

Ronaldo’s future role within Portuguese football

Though his playing career will eventually conclude, Proenca emphasised that Ronaldo’s influence on Portuguese football will persist long after his retirement. The FPF president made it clear that the five-time Ballon d’Or winner will have complete freedom to choose his future role within the national setup, acknowledging his unmatched impact both on and off the field.

“Cristiano Ronaldo will be whatever he wants to be in Portuguese football. I dare say that. He is an extraordinary figure — in terms of recognition, capability, and brand influence. From a sporting perspective, he represents a one-of-a-kind case in Portugal’s football history. Therefore, Cristiano will determine his own path in both Portuguese and global football. We will have time to reflect on where he feels happiest and where he can continue to contribute to the growth and success of Portuguese football,” Proenca added.

Preparing for life after Ronaldo

While the idea of moving on from their greatest-ever player may feel daunting for supporters, the federation is already planning for a smooth transition. Proenca emphasised that Ronaldo’s retirement should not be viewed as a catastrophe but as a natural stage in the sport’s progression. He explained that the FPF has been proactive in ensuring both financial and sporting continuity, regardless of individual players.

“I believe that preparation comes from not dramatizing the situation. Cristiano will always be intrinsically tied not only to the federation but to the entire nation of Portugal. There should be no doubt about that. The Portuguese Football Federation has always worked to secure its present and future—structurally and financially—so that its success is not dependent on a single player, a specific competition, or a limited number of sponsors,” Proenca remarked.

Commercial impact and organisational resilience

Even as the federation looks beyond Ronaldo’s playing career, Proenca acknowledged that his name continues to carry immense commercial power. Nevertheless, he reassured fans that the FPF’s financial operations are not solely reliant on the superstar’s involvement. The organisation is focused on sustaining the high standards achieved during the Ronaldo era, while also adapting to the realities of the post-Ronaldo generation.

Concluding his remarks, Proenca said: “We all understand how significant Cristiano is. To be honest, there’s still great interest from partners in working with the Portuguese Football Federation, both with and without Cristiano. The FPF’s operational revenues are fully secured for the next cycle, which will naturally and seamlessly include Cristiano’s eventual departure.”