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Ronaldo Demands Lifetime Stadium Bans After Jota-Related Chants Target Neves
By Drooid · · How we work
Incident Overview
During a Saudi Pro League match, Al Hilal midfielder Ruben Neves was subjected to repeated chants of “Jota, Jota, Jota” from home supporters while he stood over a free-kick. Video from the Al Taawoun Club Stadium shows Neves briefly applauding the crowd, then pointing to the sky and making an eye-pointing gesture toward the section from which the chants originated.
Background on Diogo Jota and Neves
Diogo Jota, a 28-year-old Portuguese international who earned 49 caps and wore the No 21 shirt for Portugal, died in a car crash in Zamora, Spain, in July 2025. His 25-year-old brother, André Silva, also perished in the same accident. Jota and Neves shared a close personal and professional bond: they were born four months apart, played together on Portugal’s youth teams, and were teammates at Porto before joining Wolverhampton Wanderers in July 2017. Their families lived in the same Wolverhampton neighbourhood, and both have young children. Neves bears a tattoo of himself and Jota embracing on his left calf and served as a pallbearer at Jota’s funeral. In August of the previous year, Neves inherited Jota’s No 21 shirt for Portugal, a decision described by former Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez as fitting because of their close relationship.
Official Reactions
Cristiano Ronaldo responded to the incident by posting on Instagram, calling on the Saudi Pro League to impose lifetime stadium bans on any fans involved in the chants. Ronaldo’s appeal specifically targets the league’s disciplinary authority. Neves’ brief post-match comment expressed disappointment but did not elaborate on the incident.
Potential Implications
Ronaldo’s demand places pressure on the Saudi Pro League to address fan conduct, potentially prompting stricter sanctions for abusive behavior. The episode also highlights the sensitivity surrounding tributes to deceased players and raises questions about how clubs and leagues will balance freedom of expression with respect for grieving families.