MarvelFlights’ prediction was correct. Cristiano Ronaldo’s suspension was postponed for the World Cup 2026. In what many saw as a dramatic twist in favor of fans worldwide, FIFA has officially suspended the remaining two matches of Ronaldo’s three-match international ban under a one-year probation. That means, after serving the mandatory one-match suspension during the final qualifier against Armenia, Ronaldo will now be eligible to play in Portugal’s opening games of the 2026 World Cup. Our optimistic forecast at MarvelFlights has come true.

What FIFA decided — and why it matters for Cristiano Ronaldo’s World Cup 2026

When Ronaldo was shown a red card for elbowing Ireland defender Dara O’Shea on 13 November 2025, many expected the worst: a full three‑match suspension that could have ruled him out of the first two games of what’s likely his final World Cup. Indeed, under normal circumstances, such “violent conduct” triggers an automatic three‑game ban.

Recently, FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee reached a compromise. While they kept the three-match ban in place, they decided to delay the last two games, putting them on hold for now.

And there is a provision in their favor. According to FIFA’s statement, under Article 27 of the Disciplinary Code, remaining matches can be suspended if the player avoids similar serious misconduct during a specified period.

Hence — since Ronaldo already sat out the Armenia match — he now enters the 2026 World Cup “clean”, unless he repeats a similar offense during the probation period.

This decision ensures Portugal won’t start their campaign without their legendary striker, allowing fans across the globe to dream again of that classic CR7 magic at the opening whistle.

What this means — and why fans are celebrating

For supporters of Ronaldo — and world football — the news is nothing short of a celebration.

• Ronaldo gets his final World Cup start: At age 40 (turning 41 before the tournament ends), this is likely his last shot to shine on football’s biggest stage. With the ban suspended, he’ll have the opportunity to feature from matchday one.
• Portugal’s hopes stay alive: Losing Ronaldo for the two opening games would have weakened the squad’s competitive edge. Now, Portugal heads into the tournament with their talisman intact.
• A win for fans and FIFA’s marketing: Ronaldo remains arguably the most marketable and widely followed footballer. His presence adds enormous global interest, and this ruling keeps that hype alive.

And for everyone who read our earlier article on MarvelFlights — this is a moment to smile with satisfaction. Our analysis, much like that of thousands of Ronaldo fans worldwide, believed in his chances — and FIFA has delivered.

A joyful, hopeful conclusion

As of today, the stage is set: Cristiano Ronaldo — the legend, the record-breaker, the relentless warrior — is once again eligible to lead Portugal from the front in what might be his final World Cup. MarvelFlights advised Ronaldo’s fans to cross their fingers for CR7, and it worked. The ban has been lifted as we predicted. And, you may now count down to the tournament beginning in earnest.

For fans, broadcasters, and the global audience, we may yet witness one more unforgettable chapter in the CR7 story: a gallant return, maybe a thunderous goal or two, and the roar of the crowd at kickoff. At MarvelFlights, we eagerly await every moment — and celebrate this decisive outcome.

Here’s to Ronaldo’s final countdown — may it be magical.