will ronaldo play fifa 2026

2 min read 14-03-2025

Will Ronaldo Play in FIFA 2026? A Look at the Future

Cristiano Ronaldo's illustrious career continues to captivate fans worldwide. But with FIFA 2026 on the horizon, a question burns brightly in the minds of football enthusiasts: will the legendary forward still be gracing the virtual pitch? This article delves into the factors that will determine Ronaldo's presence (or absence) in EA Sports' next iteration of the iconic football simulation game.

Ronaldo's Age and Continued Performance

By the time FIFA 2026 is released, Cristiano Ronaldo will be 41 years old. This is a significant age in professional football, a sport demanding peak physical condition. While Ronaldo has consistently defied expectations, maintaining an exceptionally high level of performance throughout his career, the reality is that Father Time is undefeated. His current playing form and any potential decline will be key factors. Will he still be competing at the highest level, or will he have transitioned into a different phase of his career? His performance in the coming years will heavily influence his inclusion in FIFA 2026.

The Importance of Player Ratings and Licensing

EA Sports' FIFA series relies heavily on player ratings and licensing agreements. These ratings reflect a player's current form and overall abilities. A declining performance, even for a legend like Ronaldo, could result in a lower rating which might affect his prominence in the game. Licensing is another crucial element. EA Sports needs to secure the rights to include Ronaldo’s likeness and stats. If Ronaldo retires or moves to a smaller league, the licensing may not be feasible or cost-effective for EA.

Fan Demand and EA Sports' Strategy

Despite his age, Cristiano Ronaldo remains incredibly popular globally. Fan demand for his inclusion in FIFA is substantial. EA Sports is acutely aware of this; they will undoubtedly weigh the fan response when making decisions about including specific players. However, EA's overall strategic decisions concerning player selection also come into play. The game developers might prioritize younger, up-and-coming stars, reducing the overall attention given to veteran players.

Scenarios for Ronaldo's FIFA 2026 Appearance

Several scenarios are possible:

Scenario 1: Full Participation. If Ronaldo maintains his exceptional level of play and EA secures the necessary licensing, he will almost certainly be included in FIFA 2026, albeit potentially with a slightly adjusted rating reflecting his age.
Scenario 2: Limited Role. He might be featured, but with a reduced role, perhaps appearing in legacy modes or as a lower-rated player than in previous installments.
Scenario 3: Absence from the Game. If Ronaldo retires from professional football or if the licensing deal proves unfeasible, he might be absent from FIFA 2026. This, however, would be unlikely given his enduring popularity.

Conclusion: A Waiting Game

Ultimately, whether Cristiano Ronaldo features in FIFA 2026 remains to be seen. His continued performance, EA's licensing agreements, and fan demand will all play pivotal roles. It's a waiting game, and the coming years will offer crucial insights into the likelihood of seeing the GOAT grace the virtual pitch once more in the FIFA 2026 game. Only time will tell if the legend continues.