Dublin, Ireland – Cristiano Ronaldo's temper flared during Portugal's World Cup qualifier against Ireland, resulting in a red card and potentially jeopardizing his participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The incident occurred in the 61st minute of the match at Aviva Stadium, with Ireland leading 2-0, when Ronaldo elbowed Irish defender Dara O'Shea during a scramble inside the box.

Referee Glenn Nyberg initially showed a yellow card, but after a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review, the decision was overturned, and Ronaldo was given a straight red card. This marked Ronaldo's first-ever red card in his 226 appearances for the Portugal national team.

Adding fuel to the fire, Ronaldo appeared to mock the Irish fans as he exited the pitch. Reports indicate that he sarcastically applauded and gave thumbs-up gestures towards the crowd, who responded with jeers and mocking gestures. Earlier in the match, he was also seen making a crying gesture towards O'Shea.

The red card carries significant consequences for the 40-year-old. He will automatically miss Portugal's final qualifying match against Armenia. More seriously, FIFA's disciplinary rules could result in a ban of at least two matches for serious foul play, or potentially three matches for violent conduct or assault, given the elbowing offense. If the ban extends beyond one game, it could affect Ronaldo's participation in the 2026 World Cup.

According to FIFA rules, any suspension that cannot be served during the qualification stage will carry over to the World Cup tournament. Thus, if Portugal qualifies for the World Cup, Ronaldo could be forced to sit out one or more of Portugal's matches. Some reports suggest he could miss the opening match, or potentially the first two, depending on the length of the ban.

The incident occurred during a critical juncture in the match, as Portugal was already trailing 2-0 due to two first-half goals from Troy Parrott. The loss puts Portugal's World Cup qualification in jeopardy, as they remain at the top of Group F with 10 points, closely followed by Hungary and Ireland.

Ronaldo's sending-off marks a low point in his international career, adding a 13th red card to his overall career tally. It has sparked debate about emotional control and handling pressure in crucial moments, even for legendary players.

The FIFA Disciplinary Committee will make the final decision regarding the length of Ronaldo's ban. If Portugal finishes second in their qualifying group, they will enter the UEFA playoff round. In that scenario, a two or three-game ban for Ronaldo would be served before the World Cup.