Cristiano Ronaldo has been suspended for 30 days after leaving the Portuguese national team camp during the UEFA Nations League, the country’s football federation (FPF) announced on Monday.
The 41-year-old departed the Portugal camp on September 30, later accusing coach Jorge Jesus of breaking his word about giving him game time. Ronaldo apologized to supporters earlier in October and said he would accept any punishment imposed.
Along with the suspension, the former Manchester United and Real Madrid star must pay a fine of 255 euros ($286). He received the minimum penalty under federation regulations, which provide for suspensions of one to six months for leaving the national team.
Ronaldo left the squad after being made to warm up as a substitute against Norway on September 27 without being brought on, and then learning he would not start against Denmark on October 1. His suspension takes effect from the day of the Denmark match, meaning he has already served 19 days and will complete the ban by the end of October.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner is Portugal’s all-time top goalscorer and record appearance-maker. 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 November 14 and travel to face Wales on November 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 took into account “the remorse shown in the statement” Ronaldo issued on October 6, in which he admitted his mistake and expressed willingness to accept a punishment.

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