Cristiano Ronaldo departed from Portugal's training camp on October 1, 2026, following a news conference held by head coach Jorge Jesus. Jesus announced that Ronaldo would not be selected for the upcoming Nations League match against Denmark. Ronaldo's exit occurred after a disagreement with Jesus, who had previously stated that Ronaldo would train as usual. Despite arriving at the Parken stadium in Copenhagen with the team, Ronaldo did not participate in the training session. Video footage showed him leaving the stadium with two staff members shortly after the press conference. Reports from Portuguese media indicated that Ronaldo's private jet was en route to Copenhagen, and Spanish outlet Marca suggested he planned to fly to Madrid soon after.
The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) confirmed Ronaldo's departure but stated that preparations for the match against Denmark and a subsequent game against Norway would proceed with the remaining players. The squad arrived at their hotel without Ronaldo and Jesus, whose locations were not disclosed. Jesus had previously indicated that Ronaldo would not start the match against Denmark, following his benching in the previous game against Norway.
Ronaldo took to social media to explain his departure, stating, "Following the national team manager’s press conference, and after a conversation with the President of the Portuguese Football Federation, I have decided to leave the national team’s training camp. In due course, I will tell the truth to all the Portuguese people about my reasons for leaving the national team, to which I have always been dedicated. Now is the time to wish good luck to Portugal and to all my teammates, without exception."
Jesus denied any conflict between himself and Ronaldo, although he acknowledged Ronaldo's disappointment at being benched. He clarified that Ronaldo had not refused to train but had engaged in individual exercises for physical mobility and strengthening. This incident marks the first time Ronaldo has left a training camp in his 23-year international career. Comparatively, it was less dramatic than previous high-profile departures from national teams, such as Roy Keane's in 2002 and Nicolas Anelka's in 2010.
Ronaldo has hinted at retirement plans, stating in August that the upcoming year might be his last in football. He has scored 976 goals in his career and continues to play for Saudi Pro League club Al-Nassr as he approaches the milestone of 1,000 career goals.