Cristiano Ronaldo faces potential six-month ban after leaving Portugal camp

Cristiano Ronaldo could face a suspension of between one and six months, as well as a fine, after leaving the Portugal camp without an accepted reason, according to the disciplinary regulations of the Portuguese Football Federation.

The Portugal captain departed shortly after a news conference held by manager Jorge Jesus, who stressed that he had full authority over team selection and footballing decisions.

Ronaldo then left Copenhagen for Madrid on his private aircraft. The decision could lead to disciplinary action, according to reports by Spanish newspaper Marca, citing Portuguese publication O Jogo.

Possible suspension and fine

The Portuguese Football Federation’s disciplinary code states that any player who has been properly called up for international duty and leaves without justification, or fails to attend a training session, match or other activity involving Portugal or the federation’s sporting representation, can be suspended for between one and six months.

Professional players can also receive a fine of between five and 10 accounting units.

With each accounting unit valued at 102 euros, Ronaldo could therefore be fined approximately 500 to 1,000 euros if his departure is deemed unjustified.

Federation and Ronaldo offer no explanation

The Portuguese Football Federation confirmed on Wednesday evening that Ronaldo had left the national-team camp, but did not explain why he had made the decision.

It said preparations for the team’s matches against Denmark and Norway would continue according to the planned schedule, with the other 24 players in the squad taking part.

“The entire delegation maintains its full focus on the national team’s upcoming commitments and on achieving the objectives that have been set,” the federation said.

Ronaldo later addressed the situation through his social media accounts, saying he would reveal the reasons for his departure at a later stage.

“After the national team manager’s news conference, and following a conversation with the president of the Portuguese Football Federation, I decided to leave the national-team camp,” the Portugal captain wrote.

“At the appropriate time, I will tell all Portuguese people the truth about the reasons that led me to leave the national team, to which I have always devoted myself.”

He added: “For now, this is the right time to wish Portugal and all my team-mates, without exception, the best of luck.”