2026 World Cup: Portugal confirms departure of coach Roberto

The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) confirmed the departure of coach Roberto Martinez, who led the national team during the 2026 World Cup. The decision was announced after Portugal's elimination in the round of 16, where the team was defeated by Spain in a tight game. Since taking over in January 2023, Martinez has had mixed performances, leading the team to win the UEFA Nations League in 2025, but failing to progress beyond the quarter-finals at Euro 2024, being knocked out on penalties by France. During the World Cup, Portugal had an uneven performance in the group stage, finishing in second place. The team drew with Colombia and the Democratic Republic of Congo, but managed an impressive 5-0 victory over Uzbekistan. However, the victory over Croatia in the round of 32 stage was not enough to keep the team alive in the tournament, and the defeat to Spain left fans and the press questioning Martinez's choices, especially in relation to the use of Cristiano Ronaldo.  "The São Paulo Football Federation announces that it has officially ended its contractual relationship with the national team coach, Roberto Martinez, and his coaching staff this Wednesday," the entity said in an official statement. The FPF has already started the search for a new coach, aiming to continue its ambition of winning titles and promoting a culture of victory within the team. Martinez, 52, commented after the defeat: "I came to Portugal with the aim of winning the World Cup, and as I didn't do it, there was no point in continuing." His decision to field Ronaldo, who at 41 is still a central figure in the team, drew criticism, especially from commentators who believed he was adapting more to the player's needs than the team's strategy. Martinez's departure marks a new chapter for Portugal, who are now looking for a coach who can take the team to new heights as they prepare for future competitions. The FPF is determined to find a successor who will not only maintain the team's winning tradition, but also explore new tactics and ideas to reinvigorate the team. --- ## Related Articles 1. [How the best third places work in the 2026 World Cup](https://torcidanet.live/pt/news/como-funcionam-os-melhores-terceiros-lugares-na-copa-do-mundo-2026) 2. [📷 Philadelphia or Quito? Ecuador prepares for the 2026 World Cup](https://torcidanet.live/pt/news/philadelphia-ou-quito-equador-se-prepara-para-a-copa-do-mundo-2026)

Frequently asked questions

Why did Roberto Martinez leave his position as coach of the Portugal national team?

Roberto Martinez stepped down after Portugal's elimination in the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup, where the team was defeated by Spain.

How did Portugal perform at the 2026 World Cup?

Portugal had an uneven performance, finishing second in the group stage with draws against Colombia and the Democratic Republic of Congo, as well as a 5-0 victory over Uzbekistan.

What did the Portuguese Football Federation announce about Roberto Martinez?

The São Paulo Football Federation confirmed the departure of Roberto Martinez and his technical committee, starting thesearch for a new coach.

What was Portugal's achievement under the command of Roberto Martinez?

Under the command of Roberto Martinez, Portugal won the UEFA Nations League in 2025.

How was Roberto Martinez's relationship with Cristiano Ronaldo during his tenure?

Martinez's decision to choose Cristiano Ronaldo, who is 41 years old, generated questions among fans and the press, especially after the team's elimination.

Read more in our latest coverage and stay tuned for updates on what happens next.