Ronaldo Suspended for 30 Days by Portugal, Fined $285 for Walkout

Lisbon: Cristiano Ronaldo has been fined €255 (about $285 or Rs 27000) and suspended for 30 days by the Portuguese Football Federation for walking out on the national team during last month’s Nations League campaign, a penalty that is tiny set against his wealth, which is put at about $1.2 billion.

The federation’s disciplinary council said on Monday that it upheld the charge in full, finding that Ronaldo, 41, deliberately committed an offence under Article 160(1) of its disciplinary regulations. Proceedings opened on October 9, two days after the walkout was reported. The federation called the sanction adequate and sufficient, adding that his confession and clean disciplinary record had reduced the penalty. He can appeal.

The dispute began after Ronaldo played in Portugal’s opening win over Wales but was an unused substitute in a win in Norway on September 27. He accused head coach Jorge Jesus of breaking an agreement to play him and left the camp. Ronaldo later apologised for not acknowledging supporters after the Norway match and for leaving his teammates, said he would accept any punishment and that he still wanted to play for his country. Federation president Pedro Proenca has called him a key player and expressed confidence that the rift will be resolved. The suspension should end in time for Portugal’s remaining Nations League fixtures in November.