Ronaldinho Backs Portugal, Citing Ronaldo, If Brazil Falls Short in 2026 World Cup
Published June 12, 2026
Brazilian football icon Ronaldinho has publicly declared his support for Portugal at the FIFA World Cup 2026, but only if his home nation, Brazil, fails to lift the coveted trophy.
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Legendary midfielder Ronaldinho, a two-time FIFA World Player of the Year, recently shared his perspective on who he would champion at the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup. While his unwavering loyalty remains with Brazil, the former Barcelona and AC Milan star indicated that his secondary allegiance would fall to Portugal, particularly if the Seleção Canarinho doesn't go all the way in the expanded 48-team tournament hosted across the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
Ronaldinho's choice is heavily influenced by his profound admiration for Cristiano Ronaldo, whom he lauded as one of the sport's all-time greats. Beyond the individual brilliance of Ronaldo, the Brazilian maestro also highlighted Portugal's current generation of talent and their consistent performance on the international stage as key factors in his decision. This sentiment underscores the respect shared among football's elite, even across national rivalries.
The 2026 World Cup promises to be a spectacle, with 48 nations vying for glory. Brazil, under new leadership, will be looking to reassert its dominance, while Portugal, with its blend of experienced stars and rising talent, will undoubtedly be among the favorites. Ronaldinho's public backing adds another layer of intrigue to the tournament, showcasing how even retired legends remain deeply connected to the global game's biggest event.