The football world is mourning the devastating loss of Liverpool and Portugal forward Diogo Jota, who died in a fatal car crash in northern Spain on July 3, alongside his younger brother, André Silva.
The two brothers were driving a rented Lamborghini Urus on the A-52 highway near Cernadilla, in the Zamora province of Spain. Based on Spanish authorities and reports from El País, the vehicle veered off the road after a tire reportedly burst while overtaking another car. The SUV flipped, struck a barrier, and caught fire. Emergency services were unable to save the occupants.
They were traveling from Portugal to Santander, where they planned to board a ferry to the UK. Reports indicate Diogo had been advised against flying due to minor lung surgery he had undergone in June.
Jota, 28, had just married his long-term partner Rute Cardoso on June 22. The couple shared three children, the youngest born just a few months ago. His brother, André Silva, 25, was a professional footballer for Penafiel, a club in Portugal’s second division. The family had celebrated the wedding together just days before the tragedy.
The news has prompted a global outpouring of grief.
Liverpool FC issued a statement calling the loss “unimaginable,” expressing their “deepest condolences to the Jota family, Rute, and all those affected by this tragedy.”
Manager Arne Slot said in a club video tribute: “We lost a player, a friend, and a brother.”
Jürgen Klopp, who coached Jota during most of his time at Liverpool, said: “He was pure energy on the pitch, and pure warmth off it.”
Cristiano Ronaldo, his national teammate, posted a heartfelt message: “Rest in peace, my brother. Portugal cries for you.”
UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Prince William have both expressed condolences to the Jota family and Liverpool fans.
Since joining Liverpool in 2020 from Wolves, Jota made 182 appearances, scoring 65 goals. He was a crucial part of Liverpool’s squad that secured the Premier League title and FA Cup during the 2024–25 season.
Internationally, Jota earned 53 caps for Portugal, scoring 14 goals. He represented the national team in two European Championships and the 2022 and 2026 World Cups.
Hundreds of fans have gathered outside Anfield, placing flowers, scarves, and handwritten letters. UEFA has announced a minute of silence in upcoming Euro 2025 Women’s matches.
The funeral will take place in Gondomar, Portugal. The public will be able to pay their respects at a memorial wake on July 4, followed by a private ceremony expected to be held over the weekend.
Header image: Getty Images
