Cristiano Ronaldo at 2030 World Cup? Portugal chief disagrees with Roberto Martinez's optimistic view: 'A huge surprise'

Portugal will be co-hosting the 2030 World Cup. But the Portuguese FA chief has downplayed expectations that Cristiano Ronaldo could feature on the pitch then.

Published on: Jun 1, 2026, 15:57:18 IST

Written by Neelav Chakravarti

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The Portuguese Football Federation's president, Pedro Proenca, has claimed that it would be 'a huge surprise' if Cristiano Ronaldo played for the national team at the 2030 FIFA World Cup. His comments came after Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez reignited the idea that Ronaldo could also appear in his seventh World Cup, citing his competitive mindset.

Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo will be featuring in his sixth FIFA World Cup this year. (HT_PRINT)

Speaking to Cadena Ser, he said, "No one should doubt it. He's earned it."

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"I’ve worked with many players who won a Champions League or a Ballon d’Or, and the next day they lose their motivation. What we see with Ronaldo shows a different mindset.

"I think having that goal allows you to persevere. There’s a genetic aspect to it, and also the work he puts in; he uses everything to help his body, in addition to his mindset," he added.

‘A huge surprise would have to happen’

Portugal will be co-hosting the 2030 World Cup. But Proenca has downplayed expectations that Ronaldo could feature on the pitch then. Speaking at the Bola Branca Conference, he said, "I'll say that, physiologically, a huge surprise would have to happen for him to be in another World Cup. And the European Championship? That will depend on who's in charge at the time, how the player is doing, a set of technical factors that now, it's not a matter of commenting or not commenting... With absolute certainty, and I'm fully aware of this, those who are the best players at the time will be in the national team."

"And therefore, until then... Cristiano Ronaldo will always be inextricably linked to the national team, to the federation. And therefore, what is ensured in terms of quality as a player, or not as a player, today, the brand of the Portuguese Football Federation, the brand of the national team, is intertwined with the brand of Cristiano Ronaldo."

Proenca pointed out that Ronaldo's impact on Portuguese football will always remain permanent. "Cristiano Ronaldo will be whatever he wants to be in Portuguese football. I dare say that. It's an absolutely extraordinary case, not only in terms of notoriety, capacity, and brand mobilization. Sporting-wise, I dare say it's a unique case of talent development in Portuguese football. And therefore, Cristiano will be whatever he wants to be in Portugal and in world football. We all have time to think about where Cristiano will first feel happy and where he will also help Portuguese football to position itself and maintain the position it has," he said.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Neelav Chakravarti
Neelav Chakravarti has been part of the digital sports team at Hindustan Times since 2022, where he covers a wide range of disciplines, including chess, cricket, football, and Olympic sports. Working in a fast-paced digital newsroom, he regularly handles live blogs, breaking updates, and trending stories, combining speed with clarity to keep readers informed in real time. Chess remains both a professional beat and a personal passion for Neelav, and he closely tracks major international tournaments, player narratives, and emerging talents. He is particularly fascinated by the patience, calculation, and strategic depth the game demands, often exploring the psychological side of competition in his writing. Beyond sports journalism, Neelav has a deep interest in visual storytelling and filmmaking, actively participating in film festivals and engaging with independent cinema. He is especially drawn to films that capture the subtleties of everyday life and human relationships, appreciating storytelling that balances realism with emotional depth. This creative interest complements his approach to sports coverage, where he enjoys highlighting the human stories behind performances and results. A history enthusiast by academic training, Neelav holds a bachelor’s degree in the subject and maintains a sustained interest in ancient and medieval Indian history, particularly in cultural and social transitions across eras. His curiosity about the past often shapes his perspective on contemporary narratives and long-form storytelling. When he isn’t tracking scores or developing storylines, Neelav enjoys spending time over the chessboard, relaxing with his cats, or listening to the Empire podcast by Anita Anand and William Dalrymple. He also enjoys reading long-form sports writing that explores the emotional and cultural layers of sport, while maintaining a quiet routine that balances reading, reflection, and occasional time with friends.Read More

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