Ronaldo’s absence at Jota’s funeral sparks outrage, sister responds

Cristiano Ronaldo’s sister, Katia Aveiro, has explained why her brother did not attend the funeral of Liverpool forward Diogo Jota over the weekend.

Many fans were surprised that Ronaldo did not go to Jota’s funeral, which took place at Igreja Matriz church in Gondomar on Saturday. His absence caused criticism and anger among people in Portugal.

However, Katia said Ronaldo stayed away to avoid causing too much media attention, which could have disturbed the ceremony.

She also criticised people for focusing on Ronaldo’s absence instead of mourning Jota and his brother, Andre.

On her Instagram story, Katia shared how their family felt when they lost their father in 2005. She said:

“When my father died, apart from the pain, we had to deal with many cameras and curious people everywhere we went. Even back then, when media access was not as strong as today, we could not leave the chapel except during the burial because of the commotion.

“At the funeral, there were presidents and coaches like Luís Filipe Scolari. I don’t remember seeing them, even if they greeted me, because pain blinded me.

“People will never truly understand pain, family, and real support until they go through it themselves. If anyone sends me a message criticising my brother, I will block them immediately. This fanaticism is tiring.

“It’s shameful that TV channels, commentators, and social media are focusing on his absence instead of showing respect to a family suffering from the loss of two brothers. It’s really sad to watch. Regrettable.”