Richard Keys Blasts FIFA Over Controversial Cristiano Ronaldo Call

Richard Keys has taken aim at FIFA after a decision was made regarding Cristiano Ronaldo's suspension.

Earlier in the month, Ronaldo was sent off during Portugal's 2026 World Cup qualifying round defeat against the Republic of Ireland.

Originally given a yellow card, the Portuguese was shown a straight red card after VAR adjudged Ronaldo to have elbowed Ireland defender Dara O'Shea.

Following the red card, it was reported that Ronaldo could face a two-match ban as a result of his red card.

BBC football correspondent Dale Johnson wrote on social media: "Cristiano Ronaldo is set to miss Portugal's first game of the World Cup after being sent off on VAR review for violent conduct.

"He should get a two-game ban, which would be served vs. Armenia on Sunday and the first game of the World Cup. (Assuming Portugal qualify auto)."

Amid fears over Ronaldo missing the start of the 2026 World Cup, a decision was reached this week by the FIFA disciplinary committee.

On Tuesday, it was announced that Ronaldo had been handed a three-match ban, with the final two games suspended for 'a one-year probation period'.

Cristiano Ronaldo was sent off against the Republic of Ireland. Image: Getty

So, after serving his ban against Armenia, Ronaldo is now able to play in Portugal's opening match at next summer's World Cup.

Reacting to FIFA's decision, Keys blasted the world football governing body.

He wrote on X: "It’s great news FIFA have bent the rules to get Ronaldo off his ban. Perhaps they should just hand the WC to Portugal like they did Salt Bae? What happened to the inquiry into how that happened? Anyone heard?"

During the aftermath of the 2022 World Cup final between Argentina and France, celebrity chef and restaurateur Salt Bae, real name Nusret Gökçe, stole the headlines.

The 42-year-old was seen posing for pictures with a large number of the Argentina squad and even held the World Cup trophy, attracting criticism from fans.

SPORTbible has contacted FIFA for comment.