Tragic Loss Shocks Football World — Portugal and Liverpool Forward Diogo Jota Dies in Car Crash at 28 Alongside Brother André in Spain

Liverpool Star Diogo Jota and Brother André Tragically Killed in Car Crash in Spain

By Staff Writer | Published: July 3, 2025

The football world is reeling from the devastating news of the death of Liverpool FC forward Diogo Jota, aged 28, and his younger brother André Silva, 26, in a tragic car accident in northwestern Spain. The incident occurred in the early hours of Thursday, July 3, 2025, on the A-52 highway near Palacios de Sanabria in Zamora, leaving fans, teammates, and the global football community in mourning.

According to reports from Spanish media, including Marca and El Mundo, the accident took place around 12:40 a.m. local time (11:40 p.m. UK time) as the brothers were traveling in a Lamborghini. Initial investigations suggest the vehicle suffered a tire blowout while attempting to overtake another car, causing it to veer off the road and burst into flames. Emergency services, including a Medical Emergency Unit (UME) and Primary Care Medical Staff from the Mombuey Health Center, were dispatched to the scene but could only confirm the deaths of the two occupants. The fire also spread to nearby vegetation, adding to the complexity of the response.

Diogo Jota, a beloved figure at Liverpool FC and a star of the Portuguese national team, had recently celebrated a personal milestone, marrying his long-term partner Rute Cardoso on June 22, 2025, in Porto. The couple, who began their relationship in 2012, shared three children, aged four, two, and seven months. Just days before the tragedy, Jota posted a heartfelt video on Instagram captioned, “A day we will never forget,” showcasing the joy of their wedding day. The timing of the accident, just 11 days after this celebration, has amplified the heartbreak felt by fans and loved ones.

Jota’s brother, André Silva, was also a professional footballer, playing for Peñafiel in Portugal’s lower divisions. The loss of both brothers has sent shockwaves through the football community, with tributes pouring in from across the globe. The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) expressed profound grief, stating, “The Portuguese Football Federation and all of Portuguese football are completely devastated by the deaths of Diogo Jota and André Silva this morning in Spain. The loss of Diogo and André represents an irreparable loss for Portuguese football, and we will do everything to honor their legacy every day.” The FPF has requested a minute of silence before Portugal’s upcoming Women’s European Championship match against Spain.

Diogo Jota’s career was marked by brilliance and versatility. Joining Liverpool from Wolverhampton Wanderers in September 2020 for a reported £40 million, he quickly became a fan favorite at Anfield, scoring 65 goals in 182 appearances. His contributions were instrumental in Liverpool’s Premier League title win last season, as well as their FA Cup and League Cup triumphs. Jota’s clinical finishing earned praise from former Liverpool star Jamie Carragher, who once compared him to club legends like Michael Owen and Luis Suarez, saying, “I think he is the best finisher.” Internationally, Jota earned 49 caps for Portugal, scoring 14 goals and helping the nation secure the UEFA Nations League title twice, including a victory over Spain in June 2025.

Tributes have flooded social media, reflecting Jota’s impact both on and off the pitch. Portugal’s Prime Minister, Luis Montenegro, wrote on X, “The news of the death of Diogo Jota, an athlete who greatly honoured the name of Portugal, and his brother is unexpected and tragic.” Former Manchester United player Gary Neville also shared his condolences, stating, “That is heartbreaking news on Diogo Jota and his brother. All my love and best wishes to his family.” Prominent football journalist Fabrizio Romano and TV presenter Piers Morgan echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the widespread grief within the sport.

Liverpool FC has yet to release an official statement, but fans have taken to X to express their sorrow, with many referencing the club’s anthem, “You’ll Never Walk Alone,” in their tributes. One post read, “Heartbreaking news coming out of Spain that our Red, Diogo Jota and his brother have sadly passed away this morning in a traffic accident. He got married a week ago as well, shocking.” Another user wrote, “A shock to the global sports community… Jota, known for his pace and decisive movement.”

The tragedy has left a profound void in the football world. Jota was celebrated not only for his talent but also for his charisma and warmth, qualities that endeared him to teammates, opponents, and fans alike. As the investigation into the accident continues, authorities are awaiting forensic tests to formally confirm the identities