Liverpool and Portugal football star Diogo Jota has tragically died in a car crash in the early hours of Thursday morning, aged 28. His younger brother, Andre Silva, 26, also perished in the accident, which occurred near Palacios de Sanabria in the Zamora province of northwestern Spain.
According to Spanish police reports confirmed by the Guardia Civil, the crash happened at approximately 12:30 AM local time. The brothers were traveling in a Lamborghini when the vehicle suffered a tyre blowout while overtaking another car, veered off the road, and caught fire. Both were pronounced dead at the scene.
A Celebrated Life Cut Short
Jota, who had just celebrated his wedding to his long-term partner Rute Cardoso on June 22, leaves behind a wife and three children. The ceremony was marked by joy and tributes from teammates and fans, many of whom are now expressing shock and disbelief at the devastating news.
Jota was a beloved figure both at Liverpool FC, where he played since 2020 after a £41 million transfer from Wolves, and on the Portugal national team, earning 49 caps and scoring 14 goals. He was instrumental in helping Portugal win the UEFA Nations League in 2019 and again in 2025, and most recently helped Liverpool secure the 2024/25 Premier League title, scoring six crucial goals that season.
In total, he netted 65 goals in 182 appearances for the Reds and was part of the team that won the FA Cup and League Cup in 2022.
Andre Silva: A Rising Talent
Jota’s younger brother, Andre Silva, was a promising professional footballer in his own right, playing for Portuguese second-division side Penafiel. A former youth player at FC Porto, Andre had made 59 league appearances since joining Penafiel in 2023 and was seen as a player with significant potential.
Reactions and Tributes
In a heartfelt statement, Liverpool FC said it was “devastated” by the news, requesting privacy for the family during what it described as “an unimaginable loss.”
“Diogo was not just a phenomenal footballer, but a deeply respected member of our club,” the club said. “We will provide his family and loved ones all the support they need in this incredibly difficult time.”
The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) echoed these sentiments, stating:
“Much more than an amazing player, Diogo Jota was an extraordinary person… someone with infectious joy and a reference in the community itself. We have lost two champions. Their passing represents irreparable losses for Portuguese football.”
A minute’s silence was observed at UEFA fixtures involving Portuguese teams on Thursday evening in their memory.
Portuguese Prime Minister Luis Montenegro also paid tribute:
“The news of the death of Diogo Jota, an athlete who greatly honoured Portugal’s name, and his brother is unexpected and tragic. It is a sad day for football and for national and international sports.”
From Pacos de Ferreira to Global Fame
Jota began his professional career at Paços de Ferreira before being signed by Atletico Madrid in 2016. He had a loan spell at FC Porto, then joined Wolverhampton Wanderers, first on loan and later permanently. His performances in the Premier League caught the attention of Liverpool, where he flourished under Jurgen Klopp.
His career was marked by a tireless work ethic, sharp instincts in front of goal, and a personality that endeared him to teammates, coaches, and fans alike.
Mourning Across Football
Floral tributes have been placed outside Anfield Stadium, with fans gathering to pay their respects. Emotional reactions continue to pour in from the football world, with current and former players sharing memories of Jota’s sportsmanship, humility, and talent.
Liverpool have confirmed that tributes will be held in upcoming fixtures, and a commemorative ceremony is expected to be announced in due course.
