Zamora, Spain – July 3, 2025: The football world is in mourning following the tragic death of Liverpool and Portugal star Diogo Jota, who passed away at the age of 28 in a car accident in northwestern Spain. The incident, which occurred early Thursday morning near Zamora, also claimed the life of his brother, André Silva, aged 26, a professional footballer for Portuguese club FC Penafiel.
According to reports from Spanish authorities, the accident took place around 12:30 AM on the A-52 motorway near the town of Cernadilla. The vehicle, a Lamborghini, reportedly veered off the road and burst into flames, with a possible tire blowout during an overtaking maneuver cited as a contributing factor. Emergency services, including the regional fire department and medical staff, arrived at the scene but were unable to save the two men, who were pronounced dead on-site.
Forensic tests are ongoing to confirm the details of the crash. Jota, who married his long-term partner Rute Cardoso just two weeks ago on June 28 in Porto, leaves behind his wife and three young children. The Portuguese forward was a key figure for Liverpool, having joined the club in 2020 from Wolverhampton Wanderers for €44.7 million. Known for his electrifying pace and clinical finishing, he scored 65 goals in 182 appearances for the Reds, contributing to their Premier League, FA Cup, and Carabao Cup triumphs.
Jota also played a vital role for Portugal, earning nearly 50 caps and helping the national team win the UEFA Nations League in June 2025. The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) expressed profound grief, stating, “The passing of Diogo Jota and André Silva represents irreparable losses for Portuguese football. Diogo was not only an exceptional player but an extraordinary person, respected by all.” The FPF has requested UEFA to observe a minute’s silence before Portugal’s Women’s European Championship match against Spain later today to honor the brothers’ legacy.
Tributes have poured in from across the globe. Former player Gary Neville and broadcaster Piers Morgan were among those expressing their shock and sadness, with Morgan noting on social media, “Desperately sad news… Diogo Jota, 28, has died, along with his brother, in a car accident in Zamora. He only got married 2 weeks ago.” Fans have also flooded social media with messages of condolence, with one writing, “This Jota news is heartbreaking.
Thoughts with his family and friends.” Liverpool Football Club, where Jota had been due to begin his sixth season next week, issued a statement saying, “We are devastated by the tragic passing of Diogo Jota.” The club has temporarily closed its website as a mark of respect. The football community continues to grapple with the sudden loss of a beloved star whose talent and infectious joy left a lasting impact.
Jota’s body, along with his brother’s, will be repatriated to Portugal in the coming days, and the family has requested privacy during this time of immense grief.
