Lisbon: Portugal head coach Roberto Martínez has refused to rule out the possibility of football icon Cristiano Ronaldo featuring in the 2030 FIFA World Cup, when the Portuguese captain will be 45 years old. The remarks come as Ronaldo prepares for what is expected to be his sixth FIFA World Cup appearance at the 2026 tournament in the United States, Mexico and Canada.

Martínez’s comments have reignited discussions about athlete longevity and how advances in fitness, nutrition, recovery methods and sports science are enabling elite players to extend their careers well beyond traditional expectations.

Martínez backs Ronaldo’s longevity

Speaking during an interview with Cadena SER radio, Martínez expressed confidence in Ronaldo’s ability to continue competing at the highest level.

“No one should doubt that he could play in 2030. He’s earned it,” the Portugal coach said.

Martínez highlighted Ronaldo’s exceptional mentality as one of the primary reasons behind his sustained success and longevity in professional football.

According to the coach, many elite players lose motivation after achieving major milestones such as winning the UEFA Champions League or the Ballon d’Or. Ronaldo, however, has consistently maintained his hunger for success despite already achieving virtually every major honour in the sport.

A career built on discipline and determination

Ronaldo made his senior debut for Portugal in 2003 at the age of 18 and has since established himself as one of the greatest footballers in history.

The veteran forward currently holds the record as Portugal’s most-capped player with 226 international appearances and is also the nation’s all-time leading scorer with 143 goals.

Over the years, he has played a central role in Portugal’s rise as a major footballing nation. His achievements include leading the country to its historic UEFA Euro 2016 triumph and helping Portugal secure a fourth-place finish at the 2006 FIFA World Cup.

Martínez credited Ronaldo’s commitment to fitness and recovery for his ability to remain competitive at the highest level.

He noted that the Portuguese star makes full use of every available resource to maintain his physical condition, combining rigorous training, recovery techniques and professional discipline with exceptional mental strength.

Chasing another World Cup milestone

Ronaldo has already rewritten numerous records during his international career. At the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, he became the first player in history to score in five different World Cup tournaments after finding the net against Ghana.

The 2026 World Cup is expected to mark his sixth appearance at football’s biggest tournament, a feat that would further cement his place among the game’s legends.

Ronaldo’s long-time rival, Lionel Messi, is also expected to participate in the 2026 tournament, potentially making it a historic event featuring two of football’s greatest players in their sixth World Cup appearances.

Portugal focused on 2026 challenge

Portugal will compete in Group K at the expanded 48-team FIFA World Cup in 2026. The European side is scheduled to begin its campaign against the Democratic Republic of Congo in Houston on June 17.

While the immediate focus remains on the upcoming tournament, Martínez’s remarks have inevitably shifted attention towards the possibility of Ronaldo extending his international career even further.

A potential appearance at the 2030 World Cup would be unprecedented, requiring Ronaldo to maintain elite-level fitness and performance standards well into his mid-40s — something rarely achieved in international football.

Legacy continues to grow

Although the prospect of a 45-year-old Ronaldo playing at a World Cup may seem extraordinary, few players have consistently defied expectations in the way the Portuguese superstar has throughout his career.

Martínez’s confidence reflects not only Ronaldo’s physical capabilities but also the immense influence he continues to have within the national team. His leadership, experience and winning mentality remain valuable assets for Portugal as they pursue further international success.

Whether or not Ronaldo ultimately reaches the 2030 World Cup, his longevity has already become one of the most remarkable stories in football history and continues to redefine what is possible for elite athletes.