Cristiano Ronaldo’s No. 7 honoured by Portugal; They change the way it will be written

Cristiano Ronaldo’s jersey became iconic through his efforts and achievements. Portuguese team will have big boots to fill when someon takes the number from him. | Photo Credit: Getty

Cristiano Ronaldo retired from international football earlier this month, and now the Portuguese national team has found a unique way to honour him.

Ronaldo wore the number seven and popularised the term CR7 through his jersey number, which he wore at every club he went to. He wore that number as he won numerous titles in his career and went on to become the men’s all-time leading scorer.

“Time to debut a new 7. Because there’s one that will be eternal,” said the Portuguese national team.

Tempo de estrear um novo 7. Porque há um que será eterno ∞🐐 https://t.co/UCozRU3t89

— Portugal (@selecaoportugal) November 14, 2026

The announcement video by the national team shows a cross through the number 7, indicating how the number will be a cross to bear for anyone who follows Ronaldo. This is meant in terms of the pressure of following in his footsteps, but also as a way to honour him after his retirement.

ALSO READ:Who is Carlos Forbs, the next Portugal No. 7 after Cristiano Ronaldo?

The retirement, however, was not as ceremonious as Ronaldo made the decision soon after disagreements with the manager about playing time and usage. Jorge Jesus, the Portuguese manager, left Ronaldo out of the team without a discussion with the Portuguese legend.

The 41 year old did not accept this decision by the manager but however Jesus said that Ronaldo would be welcomed back to the team.