In a profoundly moving ceremony that left the football world in tears, Cristiano Ronaldo and the Portuguese national team gathered to honor their late teammate and cherished friend Diogo Jota, who tragically passed away at 28. Held on September 2, 2025, at the national team’s training center in Lisbon, the tribute marked Portugal’s first gathering since Jota’s death in a devastating car accident on July 3, 2025, alongside his brother André Silva. The heartfelt event, attended by Jota’s family, teammates, and dignitaries, celebrated his life, career, and enduring impact, ensuring his spirit remains a guiding light for the Seleção.

Jota’s untimely death in a Lamborghini crash, caused by a burst tire just 11 days after his wedding to Rute Cardoso, sent shockwaves through football. The accident, which claimed both Jota and André, 25, left an irreplaceable void. The Lisbon ceremony was a poignant moment of unity, with Rute unveiling a bronze replica of Jota’s Portugal jersey, adorned with his name and number. Jota’s parents received a special medal recognizing his contributions—49 appearances and 14 goals for Portugal, including a key role in their 2025 UEFA Nations League triumph. The event saw Ronaldo, who missed Jota’s funeral due to personal reasons, join teammates, agent Jorge Mendes, and Portugal’s President and Prime Minister in a show of solidarity.

Rúben Neves, Jota’s lifelong friend from their days at Porto, Wolves, and Portugal, stole hearts with an emotional handwritten letter read aloud during the ceremony. “We’re not just friends—we’re family,” Neves said, his voice breaking. “You’ll always be with us—at the table, on the bus, on the plane. We’ll make sure you’re never absent, and your loved ones have everything they need. Life brought us together, and nothing can tear that apart. We’ll keep achieving for you, because you’re still here.” Neves’ words, reflecting their 164 shared matches, resonated deeply, with fans on X calling it “a tribute that hits the soul.”

The ceremony wasn’t the only way Portugal honored Jota. Coach Roberto Martinez deliberately named a 23-man squad for upcoming World Cup qualifiers, leaving one spot symbolically empty for Jota, a gesture of profound respect. Neves further cemented the tribute by revealing a new tattoo on his left calf, depicting a heartfelt embrace between him and Jota in Portugal kits, a nod to their unbreakable bond. Having inherited Jota’s No. 21 shirt, Neves vowed to carry his friend’s spirit onto the pitch, a move Martinez called fitting for “the ideal person to represent Diogo.” Liverpool, where Jota starred in their 2024-25 Premier League title, retired his No. 20 shirt, a rare honor.

Jota’s final match for Portugal was the Nations League final on June 8, 2025, helping defeat Spain in a thrilling penalty shootout. His legacy as a dynamic forward, loyal friend, and devoted husband endures. Ronaldo, who shared a close bond with Jota, posted on Instagram, “You’ll always be with us, Diogo,” echoing the team’s sentiment. The ceremony, filled with tears and memories, was a testament to Jota’s impact, from Porto’s youth ranks to Anfield’s glory. Social media erupted, with one X user writing, “Neves’ letter and tattoo for Jota broke me—pure love.”

The tribute has sparked broader reflections on loss and legacy in football. Neves’ tattoo and No. 21 shirt ensure Jota’s presence in every Portugal match, particularly against Armenia and Hungary. Fans on Reddit praised Neves’ loyalty, with one noting, “This is what football’s about—honoring your brothers.” The ceremony also highlighted Rute’s strength, standing alongside Jota’s parents, who clutched the medal as a symbol of his contributions.

As Portugal chase World Cup glory, Jota’s spirit fuels their resolve. The empty squad spot, Neves’ tattoo, and the bronze jersey stand as enduring tributes to a player whose life ended too soon but whose legacy is immortal. Whether through goals, memories, or heartfelt gestures, Jota remains a part of Portugal’s journey, forever etched in the hearts of his teammates and fans worldwide.