Liverpool Star Diogo Jota Dies in Car Crash at 28
Liverpool forward Diogo Jota has tragically passed away in a car accident at the age of 28. His younger brother, André Silva, aged 26 and also a professional footballer, died in the same crash. The incident happened early Thursday morning in Zamora, Spain.
According to Spain’s Guardia Civil, the two were driving a Lamborghini when a tyre burst while overtaking another vehicle. The car veered off the road and caught fire, killing both brothers.
Jota had recently married his long-time partner, Rute Cardoso, in a ceremony on June 22. The couple had three children together. Just days ago, he shared joyful photos from their wedding on social media.
Jota joined Liverpool in 2020 from Wolverhampton Wanderers in a £41 million deal. During his time at Anfield, he scored 65 goals in 182 appearances and helped the club win the FA Cup, League Cup (both in 2022), and the Premier League title in the 2023/24 season.
He also had a strong international career, earning 49 caps for Portugal and scoring 14 goals. He played a key role in Portugal’s Nations League wins in 2019 and 2025, including their recent victory over Spain on June 8.
The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) expressed deep sorrow, stating:
“Diogo Jota was more than a footballer – he was a remarkable human being, loved by teammates, respected by opponents, and admired in the community. We have lost two champions. Their loss is a huge blow to Portuguese football.”
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FPF has requested a minute’s silence before Portugal’s Women’s Euros match against Spain in their honour.
Jota began his football career at Paços de Ferreira before moving to Atlético Madrid in 2016. He spent a season on loan at FC Porto, where André Silva was part of the youth system. Porto also issued a heartfelt tribute, saying:
“We are shocked and heartbroken. Our thoughts are with their loved ones. Rest in peace.”
André Silva played for various Portuguese youth clubs before joining Gondomar in 2021. In 2023, he signed for Penafiel and made 59 appearances in Portugal’s second division.
Portugal’s Prime Minister, Luís Montenegro, shared his condolences:
“This is a devastating and unexpected loss. Diogo Jota brought great pride to Portugal. My sympathies go out to his family and all who knew them. It’s a sad day for football.”
Jota’s former club, Wolves, and football organisations worldwide have joined Liverpool in mourning the loss of one of Portugal’s finest football talents.
Liverpool Star Diogo Jota Dies in Car Crash at 28
