Red Card Incident Review
Cristiano Ronaldo has officially been handed a three match suspension by FIFA after his controversial red card in Portugal’s World Cup qualifier against Ireland. The decision, widely discussed across global media and 12BET Malaysia sports forums, confirms that two of the three matches will be suspended for one year, meaning Ronaldo remains fully eligible for the upcoming World Cup. Fans following the case on 12BET Malaysia can continue tracking Portugal’s journey and login 12BET for more updates.
Ronaldo’s First National Team Red Card
The incident occurred during a heated moment when Ronaldo elbowed an opponent off the ball and mocked him with a crying gesture. The referee immediately issued a straight red card — the first of Ronaldo’s 226 match national team career, and the 13th red of his entire professional journey.
Due to the automatic suspension, he will miss Portugal’s final qualifier against Armenia and will not be present to celebrate their qualification into the World Cup main stage.
FIFA Extends Suspension
FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee evaluated the situation and upgraded the suspension to three matches. However, the last two matches of the ban come with a one year probation period. For fans engaging on 12BET Malaysia, this means Ronaldo is still set to appear on football’s biggest stage — as long as he avoids repeating a similar offense.
Conditions of the Suspended Penalty
FIFA stated that if Ronaldo commits a comparable violation during the probation period, the remaining two match suspension will be activated immediately:
“If Ronaldo repeats an offense of similar nature and severity during the probation period, the suspended matches will automatically take effect during Portugal’s next official game. This does not affect additional punishment for new violations.”
The ruling may also be appealed through FIFA’s Appeals Committee.
Looking Ahead to the World Cup
Portugal has already secured a place in the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico, and will start from Pot 1 in the group stage draw. Ronaldo has previously confirmed that this will be his final World Cup appearance. Fans on 12BET Malaysia are already preparing to follow his last campaign at the highest level — remember to login 12BET for odds, updates, and exclusive insights.