The Portuguese Football Federation begins proceedings to punish Ronaldo

Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo faces a potentially severe disciplinary penalty, possibly a six-month suspension, for leaving the Portuguese national team camp without permission during the recent international break. The 41-year-old Ronaldo left the camp following a disagreement with coach Jorge Jesus after the manager decided not to start him in a Portugal match. According to the Portuguese newspaper A Bola, disciplinary proceedings have already begun against Ronaldo, based on Article 160 of the Portuguese Football Federation's disciplinary regulations. This article stipulates penalties for players called up to the national team who then fail to attend or leave training sessions, matches, or any other national team event without a valid reason. The penalty ranges from a one-month to six-month suspension, along with a fine of between €510 and €1,020 for professional players. Gonzalo Almeida, the lawyer consulted by the newspaper A Bola, explained that avoiding punishment seems extremely difficult for Ronaldo. He also pointed out that some factors could work in the Portuguese captain's favor, primarily the speed with which disciplinary proceedings are concluded. Almeida noted that the regulations not only impose the final penalty but also stipulate an automatic precautionary suspension for players who are absent or leave the national team camp. Based on this legal interpretation, Ronaldo is already suspended from participating in or representing the Portuguese national team until the proceedings are completed and a final decision is reached. The Portuguese Football Federation's disciplinary committee is expected to review the case, officially notifying Ronaldo and giving him the opportunity to present his defense and give his statement. He also has the right to call witnesses to support his position. Almeida confirmed that the disciplinary committee can initiate proceedings without a formal complaint, especially since Ronaldo's departure from the national team camp has become public knowledge after the player himself announced his decision. The lawyer believes that the speed of the proceedings will be a crucial factor in determining when the final decision regarding the Portuguese captain will be issued. On the other hand, Ronaldo has a factor that could help him reduce his suspension. He announced his departure from the national team camp on September 30, one day before the match against Denmark, via social media, and provided an explanation for his decision. Article 244 of the Portuguese Football Federation's disciplinary regulations allows for a reduction in punishment if the player fully and unreservedly admits to the facts under investigation, provided there are no doubts about the veracity of his admission. In this case, the minimum and maximum penalties are halved, which could give Ronaldo a chance to avoid the maximum suspension of up to six months.