Ronaldo could end 11-year US absence in 2026 despite past sex assault allegations

Cristiano Ronaldo’s prolonged absence from the United States of America (USA) since 2014, during which he was also accused of sexual assault in Las Vegas, could come to an end next year if things go as planned. The USA national team is planning to lineup a friendly against Portugal in March 2026, and considering that the star forward is aiming for a grand farewell at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be played in the USA, Canada and Mexico, there’s a high possibility he may feature in the friendly game.

Ronaldo’s last appearance in a football game in the USA was almost 12 years back, when he played as a substitute for Real Madrid against Manchester United on 2 August 2014. The match took place at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor and was attended by 109,318 fans. Before the Madrid pre-season game, Ronaldo also played in an exhibition game against the Republic of Ireland at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey in the same year.

Why has Ronaldo not visited the USA since 2014?

However, ever since German newspaper Der Spiegel in 2017 broke the story that Ronaldo allegedly sexually assaulted model Kathryn Mayorga in Las Vegas in 2009, the Portuguese footballer has not been photographed in the USA. It’s important to note that no charges have been filed against Ronaldo in the case.

His exile could end next year as the USA are hoping to host Portugal and Belgium in international friendlies to prepare for the World Cup, reported The Athletic. The Portugal match can be held in a mega NFL stadium, most likely the Atlanta Falcons’ Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

Also Read | At 40, still rewriting history: Cristiano Ronaldo matches all-time goal record in World Cup qualifier

In case Ronaldo wants to avoid going to the USA, it’s also quite possible, as FIFA World Cup 2026 matches are also being held in Mexico and Canada. But The Athletic added that the US Officials are working on plans to ensure it would not be a problem for the 40-year-old footballer to return to the USA.

Ronaldo is hugely popular in the country. As per YouGov polls, he is the second-most popular footballer in the USA after Lionel Messi.