Cristiano Ronaldo Avoids World Cup Suspension Despite Red card
Geneva, Switzerland - Cristiano Ronaldo will be eligible to play in next summer’s World Cup, FIFA announced Tuesday, despite receiving a red card during a qualifying match against Ireland. The decision averts a potential setback for Portugal’s tournament hopes and ensures one of soccer’s biggest stars will participate on the world stage.
Ronaldo was shown a direct red card for an elbow during the qualifying match, initially incurring a mandatory one-match suspension. However, FIFA has added a conditional two-match suspension that will remain in effect for one year.Should Ronaldo commit a similar offense within that period, the additional punishment will be immediately enforced.
FIFA stated, ”If Cristiano Ronaldo commits another offense of a similar nature within this period, further punishment will take effect immediately.” The initial concern was a potential three-match ban – standard for “violent action” – or a two-match suspension for “serious foul play,” which could have sidelined ronaldo for crucial group stage matches.
The Portuguese captain already served the one-match suspension, missing the final match of the qualifying series. The lighter penalty means Ronaldo will be available for all of Portugal’s World Cup fixtures, a critically important boost for the national team’s chances of success.
