Foundation dedicated to memory of Diogo Jota under intense scrutiny as it has no links to Liverpool despite raising almost £50,000

The official-looking website, operating under diogojotafoundation.org, boasts partnerships with heavyweights such as Liverpool FC, UNICEF, Allianz, and the Portuguese Platform of Development NGOs. Yet, when pressed for an official confirmation, three of those institutions flatly denied any involvement, as reported by The Telegraph.

Suspicion further rose when the Charity Commission confirmed that the foundation had not even submitted an application for registration. Despite claims of having offices in New York, London, and Lisbon, there is little trace of legitimate activity behind the grand facade. All payments were being redirected through a third-party website, and the donations were allowed only in "USDT, ETH and other crypto through NOWPayments securely”.

The foundation claims that it has already distributed 25,000 meals and sponsored 300 children. In the description section, it reads: "Honoring the Legacy of Diogo Jota. Through football, education, and hope, we carry forward the light he left behind – creating opportunity, joy, and lasting impact for the youth of Gondomar and beyond. The Diogo Jota Foundation was conceived in 2025 with one goal: to celebrate Diogo’s incredible journey from a small youth academy in Gondomar to one of Europe’s most respected footballers – and to pay that spirit forward. We create opportunities for young talent through free football camps and grassroots training in underdeveloped communities. We collaborate with local organizations to promote health, inclusion, and youth engagement across regions.”

As questions swirl over the legitimacy of the foundation, Liverpool have chosen to focus on cementing Jota’s memory in a way that befits his impact both on and off the pitch. The club announced that a permanent memorial sculpture will be built outside Anfield, constructed entirely from recycled mementos and tributes left by grieving fans. In addition, flowers brought by supporters will be replanted into dedicated beds across club sites, including Anfield and the AXA Training Centre at Kirkby, symbolising how Jota’s legacy will continue to grow within Liverpool’s DNA.

Liverpool confirmed they will retire Jota’s iconic No.20 shirt across every level of the club, from the senior men’s team to the academy and even the women’s side. It is the first time in Liverpool’s history that a shirt number has been permanently withdrawn. On Monday night, the Reds travel to St. James’ Park to face Newcastle United in what is sure to be an emotionally charged fixture with Alexander Isak's transfer saga still rumbling on.