LONDON — July 29, 2025
In a move that has stunned fans and raised eyebrows across England, the widow of Diogo Jota has officially filed to change the names of all her children — completely removing any connection to their late father's surname.
Court records, obtained exclusively by The Express Mirror, show that the request was submitted just three weeks after Jota’s funeral, citing “emotional trauma” and an urgent desire to “protect the children from future harm.”
But what shocked the public most wasn’t just the timing — it was the new surnames she selected.
“None of them will carry the name Jota anymore”
According to a close family source, all three children will now carry a surname linked to her own maternal lineage, a decision she reportedly made after learning about private matters concerning Jota's life before the fatal crash.
“She said she never wanted her children to be questioned, pitied, or associated with anything that might emerge in the future,” said the source.
Though unconfirmed officially, social media erupted Tuesday morning when an anonymous tipster claimed one of the new names selected was “Lourenço”, the maiden name of her grandmother — a name with no football, no headlines, and no history attached.
“A complete erasure” or a “bold act of protection”?
Public opinion has quickly divided. Some supporters call it a brave move by a grieving mother, especially as speculation around Jota’s private life has grown in recent weeks — from secret bank accounts and will disputes, to photographs and messages with unnamed women.
But others are calling the decision “extreme,” with one fan page writing:
“This isn’t just about her. These children are Jota’s legacy too. Wiping his name away isn’t healing — it’s rewriting history.”
Legal team speaks out
In a rare public comment, her legal representative issued a short statement Tuesday afternoon:
“Our client acted within her rights and in the best interest of her family. The reasoning behind this choice will remain private, and we ask the media to respect the dignity of the children involved.”
Still, sources say the family has been inundated with requests from international media, including Portuguese and Spanish outlets, seeking interviews or reactions.
Developing Story…
Rumours continue to swirl that a separate legal battle may be looming — involving Jota’s extended family, who were reportedly blindsided by the name change and are said to be “emotionally devastated.”
Will this move bring peace, or ignite a deeper public war over legacy, identity, and truth?
Stay tuned — more details expected in the coming hours.