Sports Desk: Cristiano Ronaldo has been handed a 30-day suspension and a fine of 255 euros (approximately $285) by the Portuguese Football Federation after walking out of Portugal’s camp during the recent Nations League fixtures.
The federation, which had provisionally suspended the Portugal captain, announced on Monday that the punishment was “adequate and sufficient”. The decision followed Ronaldo’s formal admission of the facts underlying the disciplinary charges.
According to the federation, Ronaldo submitted a statement on Friday accepting the conduct in question. His admission and clean disciplinary record were considered mitigating factors while determining the punishment.
The 255-euro fine was the maximum permitted under the federation’s rules after the mitigating circumstances were taken into account.
Why Was Cristiano Ronaldo Suspended?
The disciplinary action followed Ronaldo’s departure from Portugal’s camp after a disagreement over his playing time.
During the recent Nations League fixtures, Ronaldo featured in Portugal’s opening victory over Wales but was an unused substitute in the win against Norway on September 27. He reportedly accused coach Jorge Jesus of breaking an agreement to play him before walking out of the camp.
Portugal continued its campaign without the forward, registering wins against Denmark and Norway to secure qualification for the quarterfinals.
Ronaldo had already apologised for his conduct and said he expected to face disciplinary action. However, he had not immediately issued a public reaction to the announcement of the suspension.
When Will Ronaldo Return To Portugal’s Squad?
Although the suspension runs for 30 days, its start date means Ronaldo is expected to be available for Portugal’s next Nations League match against Denmark on November 14.
The punishment began on October 1, the day of Portugal’s fixture against Denmark. By the time the federation announced the decision, Ronaldo had already served 19 days of the suspension.
Ronaldo retains the right to appeal the disciplinary decision. His availability for the November fixture, however, is expected to allow Portugal to call upon its captain as the team prepares for the next stage of the competition.
The episode adds a disciplinary dimension to Portugal’s Nations League campaign, which has continued successfully despite the disagreement involving its most prominent player.
