As Father’s Day approaches in Portugal, Lute Cardoso has paid a touching tribute to her late husband Diogo Jota. Her message reflected both grief and mourning, and is the first time the family has faced the occasion without the former Liverpool FC forward.
Jota died in a tragic car accident along with his brother Andre Silva in July last year, leaving behind a wife and three children.
The loss continues to resonate deeply, especially considering the couple had just celebrated their marriage.
In a heartfelt gesture, Luthe took part in a 10km race in Porto and wore the number 20, linking the moment to Jota’s Liverpool shirt, while also creating a personal way to honor Jota’s memory through action and reflection.
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“Over 20 (forever emoji), Father’s Day race,” Root wrote on social media.
The message captured both simplicity and meaning, and supporters responded with encouragement and messages that reflected the lasting connection fans still feel.
She completed the course in just over 52 minutes, but notably, this wasn’t the first time she used running to pay homage.
She previously entered another race while referencing Jota’s number in a similar symbolic way.
The relationship between numbers and distance is a recurring theme, and by combining these elements she found a way to memorialize his presence while maintaining continuity in the face of profound loss.
Liverpool fans still respect Jota
Liverpool supporters continue to honor Jota during matches, and the tributes to Jota go far beyond his family, with the club itself taking the momentous decision to retire his No. 20 jersey from all sides.
The gesture, along with chants that will live on in his memory, underlined the lasting impression he left, with the club’s owners also pledging their support to his family, including honoring the remainder of his contract as a sign of commitment.
The circumstances of Jota’s death were sudden and shocking, as the accident occurred in northwestern Spain, where he and his brother were both killed when the car they were overtaking veered off the road.
According to reports, a tire puncture caused the car to lose control and then a fire broke out, and the incident occurred just after midnight, bringing an abrupt end to the athlete’s career while he was still in his prime.
Jota had just married Ruthe, and the couple had shared a moment during their ceremony just days before the tragedy, making the loss even more painful for those close to Jota and those who have followed his career.
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During his time at Liverpool, he played 182 games and scored 65 goals, contributing to huge successes including winning the domestic cup and the league title, establishing himself as a key contributor.
Prior to that, he built a reputation as a consistent goalscorer for Wolves, and his journey in Portuguese football, which included early development and appearances in international matches, reflected steady progress.
His influence extended to the national team, making his contribution on the international stage, scoring 14 goals in 49 appearances for Portugal, leaving a legacy defined by determination, talent and memorable moments.
