Lisbon, Portugal — The legal and emotional battle over the estate of late Liverpool striker Diogo Jota has reached unprecedented levels of drama, after a leaked recording allegedly revealed his widow, Rute Cardoso, speaking about a “new future” with an unidentified man.
The recording, which surfaced late Friday night, has left both Jota’s family and supporters across Europe stunned — but it was what followed in court that has shaken the entire nation.
The Leaked Audio
According to sources close to the investigation, the audio tape was handed to Portuguese media by an anonymous whistleblower. In it, a woman believed to be Cardoso is heard discussing property sales, moving abroad, and “building a life” with a male voice whose identity has not been confirmed.
While Cardoso has not directly commented on the recording, her lawyers insist the audio may have been “manipulated” and should not be taken as authentic.
Family’s Furious Response
The tape sparked immediate fury from Jota’s parents, who have long accused the widow of keeping secrets about their late son’s estate.
Just days after the recording emerged, the family formally demanded DNA tests on Jota’s three grandsons, claiming there had been “unanswered questions” since the inheritance dispute began.
The Shocking DNA Revelation
In court, the results of the DNA testing were revealed in a tense and emotional session. According to insiders present, the findings confirmed a stunning genetic discrepancy involving one of the grandchildren.
While two of the boys were confirmed as Jota’s biological sons, the third child’s DNA raised “serious inconsistencies” that have not yet been fully explained.
Gasps were heard in the courtroom as the revelation was announced, with Jota’s parents reportedly breaking down in tears.
Widow Under Pressure
Cardoso, who has remained mostly silent throughout the inheritance feud, is now under mounting pressure to clarify the results and address the leaked recording. Her legal team insists she will “defend herself vigorously against character assassination.”
Meanwhile, investigators are said to be considering the origin of the mysterious tape, amid speculation that it could alter both the family’s relationship and the distribution of Jota’s multi-million-pound estate.
What Happens Next
The court has adjourned the inheritance hearings for two weeks to allow both sides to prepare fresh submissions in light of the DNA bombshell.
The leaked audio and paternity revelations have not only deepened divisions within Jota’s family but have also shocked supporters in both Portugal and the UK, many of whom are struggling to reconcile the footballer’s celebrated legacy with the storm of secrets unfolding after his death.