Tragic Death of Liverpool and Portugal Star Diogo Jota in Car Crash
Diogo José Teixeira da Silva—known to fans as Diogo Jota—has tragically passed away at the age of 28, along with his younger brother André, in a fatal car accident in northwestern Spain on July 3, 2025.
The crash occurred shortly after 00:30 CEST/11:30 BST on the A‑52 motorway near Cernadilla, in the province of Zamora. Their Lamborghini reportedly suffered a tire blowout during an overtaking maneuver, veering off the road and bursting into flames. First responders confirmed both brothers died at the scene.
A native of Porto, born 4 December 1996, Jota’s rise in football was meteoric:
Began his professional journey at Paços de Ferreira (41 caps, 14 goals).
Briefly part of Atlético Madrid, then played on loan at Porto.
Moved to Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2017, later signing permanently—earning promotion and acclaim for his performance in England.
Joined Liverpool FC in 2020, making 182 appearances with 65 goals, helping to win the Premier League (2024–25), and domestic cups including FA Cup, League Cup and more.
Earned 49 caps and 14 goals for Portugal, a key part of their UEFA Nations League triumphs in 2019 and 2025.
Jota married his longtime partner, Rute Cardoso, on 22 June 2025, just weeks before the accident. The couple shared three young children. His brother André, aged 25 or 26, played professionally for Penafiel in Portugal’s second division.
The football world has been profoundly shaken:
Liverpool FC described the event as an “unimaginable loss,” asking fans for privacy for the family.
Jurgen Klopp, Jota’s former Liverpool manager, issued an emotional tribute:
“Diogo was not only a fantastic player, but also a great friend, a loving and caring husband and father.”
Cristiano Ronaldo—Portugal’s captain—posted:
“It doesn’t make sense... You had just gotten married.”
The Portuguese Football Federation called it an “irreparable loss” and requested UEFA observe moments of silence before upcoming matches.
UEFA, the Premier League, FIFA, and clubs across Europe—including Wolves, City, United, Chelsea, and Atlético Madrid—also extended heartfelt condolences.
In Liverpool, fans have gathered at Anfield, laying flowers and tributes, while the town hall flag was lowered to half-mast.
Jota was known for his “clinical finishing, explosive pace,” versatility, community spirit, and humility. A beloved figure on and off the pitch, his death is felt as a deep personal and professional loss across the global football community.
Autopsy and investigation into the crash cause are ongoing, focusing on tire failure.
Minutes of silence will be held at matches in his honor—including Women’s Euro 2025 games involving Portugal and Spain.
This tragic event marks a heartbreaking end to a life full of promise. Fans, teammates, and admirers are uniting in grief and remembrance of a man who embodied exceptional talent and warmth.
The crash occurred shortly after 00:30 CEST/11:30 BST on the A‑52 motorway near Cernadilla, in the province of Zamora. Their Lamborghini reportedly suffered a tire blowout during an overtaking maneuver, veering off the road and bursting into flames. First responders confirmed both brothers died at the scene.
A native of Porto, born 4 December 1996, Jota’s rise in football was meteoric:
Began his professional journey at Paços de Ferreira (41 caps, 14 goals).
Briefly part of Atlético Madrid, then played on loan at Porto.
Moved to Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2017, later signing permanently—earning promotion and acclaim for his performance in England.
Joined Liverpool FC in 2020, making 182 appearances with 65 goals, helping to win the Premier League (2024–25), and domestic cups including FA Cup, League Cup and more.
Earned 49 caps and 14 goals for Portugal, a key part of their UEFA Nations League triumphs in 2019 and 2025.
Jota married his longtime partner, Rute Cardoso, on 22 June 2025, just weeks before the accident. The couple shared three young children. His brother André, aged 25 or 26, played professionally for Penafiel in Portugal’s second division.
The football world has been profoundly shaken:
Liverpool FC described the event as an “unimaginable loss,” asking fans for privacy for the family.
Jurgen Klopp, Jota’s former Liverpool manager, issued an emotional tribute:
“Diogo was not only a fantastic player, but also a great friend, a loving and caring husband and father.”
Cristiano Ronaldo—Portugal’s captain—posted:
“It doesn’t make sense... You had just gotten married.”
The Portuguese Football Federation called it an “irreparable loss” and requested UEFA observe moments of silence before upcoming matches.
UEFA, the Premier League, FIFA, and clubs across Europe—including Wolves, City, United, Chelsea, and Atlético Madrid—also extended heartfelt condolences.
In Liverpool, fans have gathered at Anfield, laying flowers and tributes, while the town hall flag was lowered to half-mast.
Jota was known for his “clinical finishing, explosive pace,” versatility, community spirit, and humility. A beloved figure on and off the pitch, his death is felt as a deep personal and professional loss across the global football community.
Autopsy and investigation into the crash cause are ongoing, focusing on tire failure.
Minutes of silence will be held at matches in his honor—including Women’s Euro 2025 games involving Portugal and Spain.
This tragic event marks a heartbreaking end to a life full of promise. Fans, teammates, and admirers are uniting in grief and remembrance of a man who embodied exceptional talent and warmth.
