The key facts

  • The FPF changed the design of number 7, keeping the previous version as a symbol of Ronaldo's career
  • The number could not be retired permanently due to FIFA and UEFA regulations
  • Ronaldo ended his international career on 5 November: 234 matches and 146 goals

Number 7 with a new line

The Portuguese Football Federation announced that it has changed the design of the national team's iconic number 7 in honour of Cristiano Ronaldo, who has finished playing for the national team. The new version of the number, featuring a horizontal line through the digit, will debut in the UEFA Nations League match against Denmark in Braga — the team's first game after Ronaldo's departure.

Why the number was not retired permanently

Under FIFA and UEFA squad numbering regulations, national teams cannot permanently withdraw a shirt number from use, so the federation opted for a redesign. The FPF statement says the previous design is preserved as a tribute to Ronaldo's international career, and future players will be able to continue wearing the number. 'From today we will have a different number 7 on the shirt, but with the same essence and the same pride, while the previous one is reserved to immortalise a history that will never be forgotten,' the federation's statement reads.

Who will wear the updated number

Brugge winger Carlos Forbes is expected to be the first player to wear the shirt with the new design against Denmark. Ronaldo, who is 41, announced the end of his international career on 5 November after 23 years with the national team. He remains the record holder in men's international football for both matches (234) and goals (146). The five-time Ballon d'Or winner helped Portugal win the country's first major trophy at Euro 2016, as well as the UEFA Nations League in 2019 and 2025.