In a powerful and emotional tribute, the FIFA President has announced a groundbreaking gesture to immortalize the legacy of Diogo Jota, who tragically lost his life in a recent accident
The football world has been plunged into mourning following the heartbreaking news of Diogo Jota’s untimely death in a tragic accident earlier this week. In a powerful and emotional press conference today, FIFA President Gianni Infantino delivered a speech that left journalists and fans alike in tears, announcing a groundbreaking gesture to honor and immortalize the legacy of the beloved Portuguese forward.
🖤 “We Will Never Forget Diogo”
Speaking from FIFA headquarters in Zurich, President Infantino fought back tears as he addressed the global football community:
> “Today, we do not mourn the loss of just a footballer — we mourn the loss of a brother, a son, a teammate, and a hero to millions. Diogo Jota’s passion for the beautiful game, his humility, and his electrifying talent touched hearts in every corner of the world. It is our duty as the guardians of this sport to ensure his name and legacy endure forever.”
⚽ FIFA’s Unprecedented Gesture
In what is being hailed as one of the most significant tributes in modern football history, Infantino announced that an annual international matchday will be dedicated to Diogo Jota’s memory. Every year on October 4th — the date of his tragic passing — all professional football leagues worldwide will observe a minute’s silence before kickoff, and players will wear black armbands in his honor.
Additionally, FIFA revealed plans to rename one of its youth international competitions to “The Diogo Jota Memorial Cup”, celebrating his enduring impact on youth football and his inspiring journey from a young dreamer in Porto to a Premier League star and Portuguese international.
> “Diogo’s story will be a beacon of hope for young players worldwide, reminding them that through hard work, humility, and love for the game, greatness is possible.”
🇵🇹 A Nation in Mourning
Back in Portugal, an outpouring of grief continues. Thousands of fans gathered outside Estádio do Dragão and Anfield to lay flowers, scarves, and heartfelt messages, while Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa called it “a dark day for Portuguese sport.”
Portuguese captain Cristiano Ronaldo, visibly emotional during Portugal’s training session, shared on social media:
> “Gone too soon, brother. Your joy, fight, and smile will live on in our hearts forever. Rest in peace, Diogo.”
🌍 Global Tributes Pour In
Clubs, players, and federations from around the world have since paid tribute to Jota, with Liverpool, his current club, announcing they will retire his iconic number 20 shirt in his memory.
Anfield’s famous You’ll Never Walk Alone anthem will also be played before every home match for the remainder of the season in dedication to Jota.
📌 The Legacy Lives On
FIFA confirmed that a Diogo Jota Foundation would be launched to support underprivileged young footballers and road safety campaigns worldwide — a cause close to Jota’s heart.
As Infantino concluded the press conference, he left the room with a moving final statement:
> “The world may have lost a footballer, but heaven has gained a forward. Diogo Jota will live forever in the heart of football.”