Cristiano Ronaldo has responded to criticism from football fans who asked why he did not attend the funeral of his Portugal team-mate Diogo Jota. Many supporters believed that Ronaldo, as Portugal’s captain and one of the most influential figures in the team, should have been present. However, the forward has now detailed his reasons, saying the decision was made out of respect for Jot and his family, not carelessness.
Jota and his brother Andre Filipe were involved in a tragic accident on the A-52 motorway near Palacios de Sanabria in the Zamora region of Spain. While overtaking their car, a tire burst, the vehicle lost control and caught fire. The news shocked Portugal and the football community, leading to an outpouring of grief. Several national teammates attended the funeral, including Ruben Neves, Bernardo Silva and Bruno Fernandes. Ronaldo’s absence quickly became a topic of discussion, sparking speculation online.
During an interview on the Piers Morgan podcast, Ronaldo explained why he chose not to participate. He said the focus should have been on the grieving family and his presence may have shifted the focus in an unwanted direction.
He said: “I was alone with Gio during our rest. I was in the gym in the morning. I couldn’t believe it when they sent me the messages. I cried a lot, Gio can confirm that. It was a very difficult moment for the country, family and friends, teammates, devastating, very sad news.”
Ronaldo described Joto as humble and honest. “He’s not a person who talks too much, he’s very level-headed. I really enjoyed meeting him, sharing great moments with him. But it was sad. I had the opportunity to talk to the family and give support.”
He also addressed criticism directed at him online. “People criticize a lot, like I said, I don’t care. Because when you feel that your conscience is good and free, you don’t have to worry about what people say.”
Ronaldo also revealed a very personal reason for his decision. “One thing I don’t do is I haven’t been to the cemetery since my father died. Second, you know my reputation that everywhere I go it’s a circus. I didn’t go either, then the attention gets to me and I don’t want that attention.”
He finished by saying: “I felt good about the decision. I was planning things and thinking about his family.”
– The end
Issued by:
Amar Panicker
Published on:
November 6, 2025
