Cristiano Ronaldo may have declared that the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be his final appearance on football’s biggest stage, but former Portugal striker Nuno Gomes believes the 2030 edition—hosted partly in Portugal—could offer the legend a once-in-a-lifetime chance to bid farewell “at home”.

Ronaldo’s future remains a “year-by-year” decision, says Gomes

Speaking to TalkSport, Gomes said that only Ronaldo truly knows how long he will continue playing, given his unbelievable fitness and professionalism even at 40 years of age.

“It’s a difficult question. I think only him—maybe not even him—knows the answer because I think he is doing it year by year at this age,” Gomes said.

Praising Ronaldo’s discipline, he added:
“He’s still fit to play. He’s one of the most professional players ever and an example for younger generations.”

Portugal to co-host the 2030 World Cup

The next World Cup after 2026 will be hosted jointly by Spain, Portugal and Morocco, giving Portugal fans a historic chance to witness matches on home soil.

Gomes believes this setting would be a “dream goodbye” for Ronaldo, who previously played a home major tournament at Euro 2004. The 2030 World Cup would take place when Ronaldo is 45 years old, making his participation uncertain but symbolically meaningful.

Ronaldo continues to defy age

Ronaldo’s post-30 statistics outweigh his achievements in his 20s, a rare feat in modern football. His physical shape and scoring instincts have allowed him to remain among the world’s top forwards.

Gomes acknowledged the natural effects of age:
“Of course he has his age, and his capacity is reduced in some qualities, like speed. He’s not the same Cristiano as when he was 18 or 20. But he’s still capable of scoring goals—and that’s the most important thing.”

Record-breaking career and final shot at global glory

Ronaldo’s best World Cup finish remains the 2006 semi-finals. Despite his extraordinary career, the World Cup trophy is one of the few honours missing from his cabinet.

He has repeatedly said that 2026 will be his last chance at winning global silverware—but Gomes’ comments ignite fresh debate on whether the Portuguese legend could defy age yet again and stretch his career to a home World Cup.

Conclusion

As Portugal prepares for the 2030 World Cup, speculation over Ronaldo’s future is unavoidable. While the five-time Ballon d’Or winner insists his journey ends in 2026, time—and his unparalleled dedication—will determine whether fans will witness a historic farewell on home turf.