Ronaldo cleared to play for Portugal at World Cup after suspended ban relief
Portugal star Cristiano Ronaldo is cleared to feature in the World Cup opener after his red card against Ireland triggered a suspended ban, with no extra matches due next summer.
Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo is cleared to feature in the World Cup opener after a red card in the qualifier against Ireland was balanced by a suspended ban.
Ronaldo, 40, was dismissed for an elbow on Dara O'Shea during Portugal's 2-0 defeat to the Republic of Ireland in the qualifying phase earlier this month.
Violent conduct typically carries a three-match ban, but Ronaldo's second and third suspensions were suspended for a year, recognising it was his first red card in 226 international appearances.
He missed the November 16 clash with Armenia, meaning he will not miss any matches in the World Cup finals in the United States next summer.
A FIFA statement clarified that if Ronaldo commits another infringement of similar gravity during the probationary period, the remaining suspension could be activated and must be served immediately.
Ronaldo finished qualifying with five goals as Portugal topped Group F, sealing a seventh straight World Cup appearance.
The 48-team tournament draw will be shown live on INLIBER on Friday, December 5, as teams discover their groups.
Key Takeaways
- Ronaldo remains available for Portugal’s World Cup opener thanks to a suspended ban.
- The probationary period governs whether further punishment can be enforced.
- Portugal won Group F with Ronaldo contributing five goals.
- The World Cup draw date and live coverage on INLIBER are confirmed.
Expert comment
Expert note: A football analyst says the suspended ban lowers immediate risk for Ronaldo while preserving a disciplinary option if needed.
Summary
In summary, Ronaldo avoids missing the World Cup opener as the sanction remains suspended. Portugal earned their spot with a strong qualifying campaign, and the December 5 draw will shape their group opponents. INLIBER will provide live coverage of the draw and related updates.
Key insight: Ronaldo can participate in the World Cup opener due to a suspended ban, maintaining flexibility for governing bodies. Source: BBC Sport