Will Cristiano Ronaldo Play in the World Cup for Portugal?

Cristiano Ronaldo has already established himself as one of the greatest players in soccer history, and he’s won nearly everything possible — except the World Cup. This summer presents one last chance.

If Ronaldo takes the pitch at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, it would mark a record-setting sixth appearance in the world’s biggest tournament.

Over on PrizePicks Team Picks, you can make a prediction on whether certain players will play in the 2026 World Cup and earn a real-money payout if you’re correct. For example, a $100 entry on a player to participate in the World Cup at a 2.5x payout would return $250.

Below, we’ll discuss if Ronaldo will play in the World Cup and highlight picks for Cristiano and the Portugal national team.

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Will Cristiano Ronaldo Play in the 2026 World Cup?

Portugal’s 2026 World Cup roster was announced last week, and Ronaldo was named to the 26-man squad to the surprise of nobody given he is the national team captain.

On PrizePicks Team Picks, a prediction of “No” on Cristiano to play in the 2026 World Cup returns a 33.33x payout.

Ronaldo was given a three-match ban after being sent off in Portugal’s penultimate World Cup qualification match against the Republic of Ireland last year, meaning he was possibly set to miss their first two matches at the tournament. 

However, the Portugal captain was given a reprieve when the latter two matches were suspended for a one-year probationary period. 

This means the striker will be available for selection on June 17 when Portugal opens Group K play against DR Congo. Manager Roberto Martinez said last week that he hopes the aging superstar will be a vital component to the team due to his leadership and experience.  

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Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal Picks for 2026 World Cup

Here are some top Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal picks on PrizePicks for the 2026 World Cup. Check out more of our soccer picks and predictions on Playbook.

Lock in your Cristiano Ronaldo 2026 World Cup picks on PrizePicks now.

Player and Team Picks data is live at the time of writing and is subject to change.

Cristiano Ronaldo to be the Golden Boot Winner: Yes 16.66x | No 1.01x

Ronaldo scored 28 goals in 30 matches this past season for Al Nassr FC as he helped lead them to the Saudi Pro League title. He also led Portugal with 5 goals across five World Cup qualification matches, finding the back of the net in three of those matches. 

Portugal to win 2026 Men’s World Cup: Yes 7.69x | No 1.07x

Portugal are currently fourth-favorite to lift the 2026 World Cup trophy behind only Spain, France, and England. 

Portugal to win 2026 World Cup Group K: Yes 2.50x | No 1.44x

Portugal was drawn into Group K for their World Cup group stage alongside Colombia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Uzbekistan. 

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Ronaldo isn’t as fast as he used to be, but he’s still dangerous in front of goal. His Portuguese teammates revere him and desperately want to help him win the one award that has eluded him in his legendary career. Will he be able to contribute enough to reach the mountaintop at the 2026 World Cup?

You can make your Cristiano Ronaldo and 2026 World Cup picks on PrizePicks and PrizePicks Team Picks to earn real money on World Cup games. Just pick players, predict More or Less on their projected stats like shots or goals, and cash in if you’re correct. 

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Stick around with the Playbook for continued World Cup predictions, picks, and analysis through the end of the tournament.