FIFA Includes Cristiano Ronaldo to 2026 World Cup Poster After Deleting Original Graphic

FIFA has updated its promotional poster for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after coming under criticism for leaving out Cristiano Ronaldo in the first version released earlier this week.

The world football body has now deleted the original artwork and replaced it with a new design that includes the Portuguese superstar, who is on the verge of making history by appearing at the World Cup for a record sixth time.

The first poster, unveiled ahead of the official World Cup draw scheduled for 5 December, featured top stars from qualified nations, including Lionel Messi, Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mané, Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappé. Ghana captain Jordan Ayew also appeared as he prepares for his third World Cup.

However, many fans were surprised when Ronaldo’s image was missing, with Manchester United midfielder Bruno Fernandes used instead to represent Portugal. The omission immediately sparked reactions online, with supporters asking why one of the game’s biggest icons was left out.

FIFA has now corrected the design, adding Ronaldo to the updated poster released on Thursday. His return has already triggered excitement among Portuguese fans and renewed debates between football supporters around the world.

The 2026 World Cup, to be hosted across the United States, Mexico and Canada, will be the first edition to feature 48 teams.

Fans React to Ronaldo’s Inclusion

@CR7Global:

“Order has been restored. You can’t talk about the World Cup without Ronaldo. Thank you, FIFA!”

@MessiUltra:

“So they had to redraw the whole poster just because Ronaldo fans cried? Meanwhile Messi was there from day one. Levels.”

@RonaldoNations:

“We cried? Bro, FIFA made a mistake and fixed it. When Messi retires, posters will still need Ronaldo’s face to shine!”

@GOATdebates:

“The way Messi fans are shaking just because the true king is back on the poster. Ronaldo at six World Cups… hold that!”

@M10Legend:

“Poster or no poster, Messi has the World Cup trophy. That’s the only picture that matters.”

@PortuguesePride:

“Ronaldo being added proves his influence. He’s 40+ and still unavoidable. Unreal.”

@FootballNeutral:

“Every time Ronaldo gets added to something, Twitter becomes a battleground. You people never rest .”

@CR7Forever:

“Messi fans acting like FIFA did them a favour. Ronaldo’s presence sells tournaments. Facts only.”

@LeoSmooth:

“Ronaldo fans celebrating like he won another Ballon d’Or because of a poster. Relax please.”