Full Breakdown
Ronaldo’s Walkout, Suspension and Fine: A Detailed Account
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event – Walkout and Federation Sanction
On September 30, Cristiano Ronaldo left Portugal’s training camp in Copenhagen during the UEFA Nations League window. The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) imposed a 30-day suspension and a €255 fine. The disciplinary council called the sanction “adequate and sufficient” and noted Ronaldo’s admission of the charge.
Background & Context – Dispute with Coach Jorge Jesus
The walkout followed a dispute with head coach Jorge Jesus. Ronaldo, an unused substitute in Portugal’s September 27 2-1 win over Norway, claimed Jesus had promised him about 30 minutes of playing time, a promise he said was broken when he warmed up but was not brought on. Jesus denied any agreement, calling it a “misunderstanding” and leaving open the possibility of Ronaldo’s return.
Timeline
- September 24 – Ronaldo started against Wales.
- September 27 – Unused substitute in the Norway match; dispute begins.
- September 30 – Ronaldo departs the Copenhagen camp.
- October 1 – Disciplinary council records the suspension’s start (some reports).
- October 19 – Council announces the sanction, noting Ronaldo had already served part of the 30-day period.
- October 20 – Council formally upholds the charge and announces the penalty.
- November 14 – Portugal’s Nations League match against Denmark (scheduled).
- November 17 – Portugal’s Nations League match against Wales (scheduled).
Data & Statistics
- Suspension: 30 days (minimum under Article 160(1) of the FPF’s regulations).
- Fine: €255 (? $285).
- Matches missed: Norway (Sept 27) and Denmark (Sept 30).
- Ronaldo’s record: 146 goals in 234 caps, Portugal’s all-time leading scorer.
- By the October 19 announcement, Ronaldo had served 19 days, leaving 11 days remaining.
Official Statements & Responses
- Pedro Proença, FPF president: Said Ronaldo’s “confession and clean disciplinary record” helped reduce the sanction and expressed a “strong desire” for his return.
- Jorge Jesus, head coach: Denied promising specific minutes, describing the incident as a “misunderstanding” and emphasizing his discretion over selections.
- Ronaldo’s statement: He accepted responsibility, apologized to teammates and supporters, and said he would be available after serving the punishment.
Verbatim Quotes
- “To my absolute surprise, the coach asked me whether I was ready to play 30 minutes [against Norway],” — Cristiano Ronaldo
- “I warmed up from half-time, watched the minutes go by, and was not called. The coach had broken his word to me.” — Cristiano Ronaldo
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on the suspension’s exact start date—some cite October 1, others back-date it to September 30. Both agree the 30-day period ends before Portugal’s November 14 match, though calculations of days served vary.
What’s Next – Upcoming Fixtures
The suspension expires before Portugal’s November 14 Nations League game against Denmark in Braga and the November 17 match against Wales. Selection for those fixtures rests with coach Jorge Jesus, who has indicated Ronaldo remains a “key piece” if he stays available and resolves the dispute.