Saudi Pro League club, Al Nassr star, Cristiano Ronaldo, has expressed his excitement and pride after FIFA’s announcement on Wednesday that his home country, Portugal, will co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
Henzodaily reports that FIFA announced the hosts for the next two editions of the tournament via its website and official X handle on Wednesday.
The announcement read: “Introducing the hosts for the next two editions of the @FIFAWorldCup!
“Morocco, Portugal, and Spain will host in 2030, with centenary celebration matches in Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay.
“Four years later, Saudi Arabia will host the FIFA World Cup 2034™.”
Reacting to the development via his social media page, the Portugal national men’s team captain and five-time Ballon d’Or winner wrote: “A dream come true. Portugal will host the 2030 World Cup and fill us with pride. Together!”
Ronaldo’s enthusiasm for the upcoming World Cup on home turf is unmistakable, yet there remains ongoing speculation regarding whether the football legend—who will reach 40 in February 2025 might prolong his remarkable career to compete in the tournament at 45.
Despite his current playing status, Ronaldo’s influence on Portuguese football continues to motivate fans around the globe.
It is worth noting that the previous FIFA World Cup in 2022 witnessed Ronaldo’s long-standing rival, Lionel Messi, guiding Argentina to a momentous victory, further cementing his reputation as one of the all-time greats in football.
For Ronaldo, the World Cup trophy remains one of the few significant honours absent from his illustrious career, which boasts numerous Champions League titles, a European Championship triumph with Portugal in 2016, and a record-tying five Ballon d’Or awards.
The 2030 tournament, scheduled to be held on home soil, presents a meaningful opportunity for Portugal to excel, even as uncertainties about Ronaldo’s potential involvement continue to arise.