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FIFA Ruling Clears Ronaldo for World Cup Opener After Red-Card Ban

The decision departs from FIFA’s usual three-match baseline for violent conduct, with two matches suspended during a probationary period.

Overview

  • Cristiano Ronaldo received a one-match suspension with two additional games suspended on probation following his red card against Ireland.
  • He already served the immediate ban in Portugal’s 9–1 win over Armenia, leaving him eligible to start the 2026 World Cup.
  • FIFA said the suspended matches take effect automatically if he commits a similar offense during the probationary period.
  • The dismissal followed a VAR review for an elbow on Dara O’Shea in Dublin, marking Ronaldo’s first international red in his 226th cap.
  • Coverage notes the sanction is lighter than the minimum three games typically prescribed for violent conduct under FIFA regulations.