Ronaldo’s 30-day ban deemed ‘sufficient’

Portugal’s football federation has defended its 30-day ban on Cristiano Ronaldo as “sufficient and adequate”, despite criticism that the punishment was merely symbolic.

The 41-year-old forward was sanctioned after leaving Portugal’s national team camp following a disagreement with coach Jorge Jesus over his playing time.

Ronaldo later apologised to his teammates and fans, accepted responsibility for his actions and asked the federation to punish him.

The Portuguese Football Federation’s disciplinary committee said it considered his remorse and contributions to football when deciding the punishment.

The ban, effective from September 30, has already served 19 days. Ronaldo was also fined just €255, an amount critics have described as nominal.

-AJM