Liverpool and Portugal Star Diogo Jota Dies in Fatal Car Crash in Spain
The football world is in mourning following the tragic death of Liverpool and Portugal forward Diogo Jota,
who passed away in a car accident in Spain at the age of 28. The heartbreaking incident also claimed the life of his brother, André Silva, a fellow professional footballer.
The crash occurred around 12:30 a.m. local time near Cernadilla, a municipality in the province of Zamora, in northwestern Spain.
According to Spain’s Guardia Civil, initial reports suggest the accident may have been caused by a burst tire while the vehicle—reportedly a Lamborghini—was overtaking another car. The vehicle caught fire shortly after, killing both occupants on the scene. Authorities are also investigating the possibility that excessive speed played a role in the fatal crash.
Jota, who had only recently married and was a father of three, had a flourishing football career. He was a key part of Liverpool’s recent title-winning campaign, contributing six goals and four assists across 26 appearances.
During his time with the Reds, he helped the club secure three major trophies. On the international stage, Jota also celebrated success with Portugal, winning two UEFA Nations League titles.
His passing leaves a deep void in both club and country, as fans, teammates, and the wider football community come to terms with this devastating loss.
Football Mourns: Diogo Jota and Brother André Silva Die in Tragic Car Crash in Spain
Just two months ago, Diogo Jota celebrated a Premier League title win with Liverpool. Less than two weeks ago, he married his longtime partner, Rute Cardoso—the mother of their three children.
Today, the football world is in shock and mourning after Jota and his brother, fellow footballer André Silva, died in a devastating car crash early Thursday morning in Spain.
What We Know So Far
The fatal accident occurred on the A-52 highway in Zamora, located in northwestern Spain. According to Spain’s Guardia Civil, the crash was likely caused by a burst tire while overtaking. The car veered off the road and caught fire shortly after.
Authorities were able to identify the victims through documents recovered at the scene and the car’s license plate, as reported by CNN Portugal. Forensic analysis at a morgue in Zamora later confirmed the identities of both brothers.
The remains have since been transferred to Puebla de Sanabria for further investigation. The family is currently in the town to complete the necessary administrative processes to bring the bodies back to Portugal, CNN Portugal added.
Remembering Diogo Jota and André Silva
Jota, 28, spent five successful seasons with Liverpool, scoring 65 goals and helping the club win three major trophies. His brother André Silva also played professionally, most recently for Futebol Clube de Penafiel in Portugal’s second-tier league, Liga Portugal 2.
Global Tributes Pour In
Tributes have been pouring in from around the world. Cristiano Ronaldo, former Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp, NBA superstar LeBron James, and the United Kingdom’s Prince William are among those who have expressed their sorrow and paid homage to Jota’s legacy.
A wake for the brothers is expected to be held on Friday in their hometown of São Cosme, Gondomar, in northern Portugal.
