LISBON: Cristiano Ronaldo has been handed a 30-day suspension for leaving the Portugal national team camp during the UEFA Nations League, the country’s football federation (FPF) announced on Monday.
The 41-year-old left the Portugal camp on Sept 30 before accusing coach Jorge Jesus of breaking his word over giving him game time.
Ronaldo apologised to supporters earlier in October, adding that he would accept any punishment imposed.
The former Manchester United and Real Madrid star, who will also have to pay a fine of €255 (US$286), has received the minimum penalty under the federation’s regulations, which stipulate suspensions of between one and six months for leaving the national team.
Ronaldo left Portugal’s squad after being made to warm up as a substitute against Norway on Sept 27 but not being brought on, before learning that he would not start against Denmark on Oct 1.
His suspension took effect from the day of the Denmark match, meaning he has already served 19 days of his ban and will complete it by the end of October.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner is Portugal’s all-time leading goalscorer and record appearance-maker.
However, in his absence, Portugal won all four of their Nations League matches and qualified for the quarter-finals with two games to spare.
Portugal host Denmark on Nov 14 before travelling to face Wales on Nov 17 in their final two Nations League Group A4 matches, by which time Ronaldo will have served his suspension.
The FPF disciplinary committee said it had taken into account “the remorse shown in the statement” issued by Ronaldo on Oct 6, in which he admitted his mistake and expressed his willingness to accept punishment.