Cristiano Ronaldo Explains Why He Skipped Diogo Jota's Funeral
Cristiano Ronaldo has spoken openly about his decision not to attend the funeral of his Portugal teammate Diogo Jota, who tragically died in a car crash earlier this year. In an emotional interview with Piers Morgan, Ronaldo shared the reasons behind his choice, emphasizing his desire to avoid turning the tragedy into a media spectacle.
Tragic Loss of Diogo Jota and His Brother
Diogo Jota, 28, and his brother André Silva, 26, died in a fatal accident in north-western Spain on 3 July 2025. Their passing devastated the football community and plunged Portugal into mourning.
Funeral and Public Reaction
The funeral took place in Jota’s hometown of Gondomar, attended by family, teammates, and officials. However, Ronaldo’s absence sparked anger among fans and supporters who struggled to understand why the Portuguese captain did not join the farewell of a fellow player.
Ronaldo's Explanation
"I was in the gym with Gio when they sent me the message. It was very, very difficult for the country, for the family, for the teammates. A disaster."
Ronaldo revealed that the grief, memories of his late father, and the intense pressure that comes with fame influenced his decision. He stated that he wanted to stay away from the media circus and feels at peace with his choice.
Summary
Ronaldo’s heartfelt explanation highlights the personal challenges behind his controversial decision, reflecting on grief and the desire for privacy during a time of national sorrow.
"I avoided turning the tragedy into a media circus and feel at peace with my choice."
Author’s summary: Ronaldo chose to skip Diogo Jota's funeral to manage personal grief and media pressure, prioritizing peace over public expectation amid tragedy.