Ronaldo faces risk of 6-month ban for leaving national team camp

Cristiano Ronaldo is facing potential disciplinary action for leaving the Portugal national team camp. Under the Portuguese Football Federation's (FPF) disciplinary code, the 41-year-old star could face a ban ranging from one to six months if the infraction is proven.

The incident occurred during the Nations League international break. Ronaldo was benched for the match against Norway and did not play at all. Subsequently, following a disagreement with coach Jorge Jesus, he left the national team camp.

Later, in a statement, Ronaldo expressed regret to fans and teammates for his decision. He also stated that he would accept whatever disciplinary measures the federation imposed. However, the Portuguese captain clarified that he is not retiring from international football.

What the Portuguese disciplinary code says

According to Article 160 of the FPF disciplinary code, a player regularly called up to the national team who leaves training, a match, or national team-related activities without a valid reason may be banned for one to six months. For professional players, this may also entail a financial fine.

The same article includes a provision for an automatic temporary suspension in such cases. According to lawyer Gonçalo Almeida, speaking to the Portuguese media outlet 'A Bola', the temporary suspension in Ronaldo's case could be considered effective from the moment he left the camp.

Possibility of a reduced penalty

However, there is a silver lining for Ronaldo: his penalty could be reduced because he has admitted responsibility for his actions. As Almeida explained, an unconditional admission and other mitigating circumstances could lead to a significant reduction in the potential duration of the ban.

Ronaldo has publicly admitted responsibility for leaving the national team camp. He stated that while there were disagreements with coach Jorge Jesus on certain issues, the decision to leave the camp was ultimately his own. However, the disciplinary council of the Portuguese Football Federation has not yet announced the final duration of Ronaldo's suspension. Consequently, it is inaccurate to state that a "six-month ban" has been imposed; rather, under the regulations, he faces the risk of a maximum six-month suspension.

**Leaving the camp due to a dispute with the coach**

Ronaldo claimed that there had been prior discussions with Jorge Jesus regarding his playing time. However, a disagreement arose between the two when the situation did not unfold as expected. Jesus, for his part, has denied some of the understandings mentioned by Ronaldo.

Ronaldo also stated that once the suspension concludes, he would be ready to play for Portugal again, provided he remains physically fit and in good form at the club level. Therefore, it is not yet certain that the current controversy marks the end of his international career.