Cristiano Ronaldo Prepares for FIFA World Cup 2026 with Portugal Team

Cristiano Ronaldo is in full training mode with his Portugal teammates as they prepare for their FIFA World Cup 2026 opener against DR Congo. The football icon shared his fitness and optimism on social media, reflecting on the team's preparations and their hopes for the tournament. With a strong squad and a record of international success, Ronaldo aims to secure the one major trophy that has eluded him. As excitement builds for the tournament, Ronaldo emphasizes the importance of their first match on June 17, where true champions will be revealed.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 15, 2026, 01:55 IST

Ronaldo's Training Ahead of World Cup

In Florida, Cristiano Ronaldo has been actively training with his Portugal teammates as they gear up for their opening match against DR Congo in the FIFA World Cup 2026, scheduled for June 17. The football superstar shared several images on his Instagram, showcasing the team's training sessions at their camp located in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.

Ronaldo participated in two warm-up matches against Chile and Nigeria, where his team secured victories of 2-1 in both games, although he did not score.

Before the team's journey to the U.S. on June 12, the 41-year-old athlete assured reporters of his fitness, stating, "Physically? I’m fine — have you not seen my matches?"

He expressed contentment with the team's preparation for the World Cup, which is being hosted across the U.S., Mexico, and Canada from June 11 to July 19. "It has been good but tiring because we’ve worked hard," Ronaldo remarked.

He emphasized that while they have performed well in their matches, the true test will come when the tournament begins on the 17th. "That’s when we’ll see the true champions," he added.

Ronaldo holds the record for the most international appearances (227) and goals (143) in men's football and is now focused on winning the one major title that has eluded him.

When asked if Portugal is a favorite to win the 2026 FIFA World Cup, he replied, "We’ll only know at the end."

Ronaldo conveyed the team's excitement for the World Cup, likening it to the European Championship, and expressed optimism as they head into the tournament. "We’re really looking forward to it; we know the World Cup is always a special tournament, just like the European Championship, so we’re heading there full of hope," he stated.

Portugal has yet to claim a FIFA World Cup title, with their best finish being third place in 1966. However, they enter this tournament with a robust squad, including standout players like Bruno Fernandes, who recently had a stellar season with Manchester United.