The Portuguese national team has not played any matches at the 2026 World Cup, but Cristiano Ronaldo has become the focus in the US. What is noteworthy is not on the training ground, but from the team's walking and beaching plans in Florida.
Accordingly, Portugal chose Palm Beach Gardens (Florida) as a base in the group stage of the 2026 World Cup. Instead of entering high-intensity training sessions, coach Roberto Martinez and his team plan to adapt to climate conditions with outdoor activities, including going to the beach in the morning.
However, Cristiano Ronaldo's excessive attraction changed this plan, because the 41-year-old superstar caused a fever when he appeared on the beach. Hundreds of fans gathered around the Portuguese team's accommodation area to wait to meet their idol, forcing security forces to tighten control.
According to Portuguese media, Ronaldo was asked not to swim in the sea on his own even though the team had its own area. The players were then only allowed to use the swimming pool inside the resort. The fitness plan on the beach was also cancelled because it did not ensure safety and privacy.
Explaining why the team went to sea instead of training right on the field, midfielder Matheus Nunes said: "The Portuguese team going to sea was in the plan to adapt to the climate. For example, I spent the whole year playing football in Manchester and it wasn't that hot there. Going to the beach in the morning is to adapt to the heat, sunshine and humidity. We don't spend more time at the beach than training time".
Portugal is considered one of the notable candidates at the 2026 World Cup. Coach Roberto Martinez's team will start their journey with a match against Congo on June 18, then successively face Uzbekistan and Colombia.
