Portugal’s football stars, led by Cristiano Ronaldo, have found a heartfelt way to honour their late teammate Diogo Jota as they gear up for their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign in North America. During their training session in Miami, members of the Selecao were seen wearing specially designed wristbands as a moving tribute to Jota.

A special tribute to Diogo Jota

The Portuguese national side has introduced an emotional gesture to commemorate former Liverpool and Selecao forward Diogo Jota, who sadly lost his life in a car accident last year. The team will don these commemorative wristbands throughout the World Cup, beginning with their opening Group K match against DR Congo next week. The wristbands were a personal gift from Portugal’s Prime Minister, Luis Montenegro, presented to the players during a meeting before they departed for the tournament.

Midfielder Vitinha spoke about the importance of the wristbands and revealed that they were made in compliance with FIFA’s on-field regulations. “Basically, the story of the wristband is that when we met the Prime Minister, he gave us this wristband,” said the Paris Saint-Germain midfielder while addressing reporters.

“They ensured it was designed so that we could wear it on the pitch. It includes the names of all the players along with the special name of Diogo Jota. He allowed us to decide whether and how we wanted to wear it, either during training or matches. We accepted it with great affection and chose to wear it.”

Martinez inspired by Jota’s legacy

Portugal coach Roberto Martinez has spoken openly about how Jota’s memory has shaped the team’s mindset heading into the tournament. Jota, who earned 49 caps and netted 14 goals for Portugal, was regarded as a key presence in the dressing room. Martinez believes that Jota’s spirit will continue to motivate the squad through the highs and lows of their World Cup journey.

“Diogo is our light,” Martinez said in an interview with The Athletic. “He represents the desire to fulfil his dream of winning titles for Portugal, just as he did with the Nations League. He was integral to the culture we built in the dressing room.

“His dream was to win the World Cup, and that now becomes a shared responsibility. Diogo embodied belief and persistence—always finding the right response in challenging moments.”

Vitinha remains grounded amid high expectations

While emotions run high within the squad, Portugal’s players remain focused on the tactical demands awaiting them across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Vitinha, fresh from back-to-back UEFA Champions League triumphs with his club, downplayed the notion that Portugal are clear favourites to lift the trophy. He emphasised that humility and discipline would be key if they hope to surpass their quarter-final finish from the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

“I wouldn’t say we’re the favourites. We have great quality and the ability to go far,” Vitinha said. “But we know the right path is to stay humble and play our game. We have the talent—what remains is to perfect the technical and tactical side.” The squad has been training in Miami to adapt to the North American conditions before their first match on Wednesday.

Adapting to challenges across three nations

The 2026 World Cup’s three-host format comes with logistical and environmental challenges, from long travel distances to varying climates across venues. Vitinha acknowledged that while weather could impact performance, it is a factor that all teams must contend with. He made it clear that Portugal will not use such conditions as an excuse.

“The weather will influence how we play, but it’s the same for everyone,” he said. “With different temperatures across the US, Mexico, and Canada, it’s tough. But this is the World Cup—there are no excuses, no conditions that will stop us from giving our best for Portugal.

“I’ve dreamed of this all my life and achieved many great things. Now, I want to achieve this title as well.”

How far can Portugal go?

As Portugal set their sights on conquering the world stage once more, their emotional tribute to Diogo Jota serves as both a symbol of remembrance and a source of strength. With Cristiano Ronaldo leading the charge and a talented squad behind him, the Selecao hope to turn grief into glory when the World Cup gets underway.