Ronaldo tried to reduce punishment: 'No mitigating circumstances'

Ronaldo sought to reduce his 30-day suspension from Portugal after leaving the national team camp in September, citing his achievements and disciplinary record despite publicly claiming he wanted no special treatment.

Cristiano Ronaldo attempted to have his suspension reduced after departing Portugal's training camp in Denmark in late September following a dispute with coach Jorge Jesus over his role. The 41-year-old initially stated publicly that he should face punishment without mitigating circumstances, but during the disciplinary hearing he argued for leniency based on his clean record, contributions to football (including five Ballon d'Ors, Euro 2016, and two Nations League titles), and cooperation with the investigation. The Portuguese Football Federation's disciplinary committee halved his original 30-day ban and €255 fine based on his sporting achievements, then halved both sanctions again after he accepted responsibility.