Diogo Jota Dies: Football World Mourns Liverpool Forward
The football world is in mourning as Diogo Jota dies at just 28 years old following a tragic car accident in Spain. The Liverpool and Portugal forward, celebrated for his pace, skill, and infectious spirit, lost his life alongside his younger brother, André Silva, in the early hours of July 3, 2025, near Zamora, Spain
What Happened? Details of the Accident
- Location: The accident occurred on the A-52 highway in the Zamora province, northwestern Spain, close to the Portuguese border.
- Time: The crash happened shortly after midnight, around 12:30 a.m.
- Circumstances: According to local police, the Lamborghini they were traveling in suffered a tire blowout while attempting to overtake another vehicle. This caused the car to veer off the road, after which it caught fire. Both Jota and his brother were killed at the scene.
- Emergency Response: Firefighters, police, and medical teams responded, but both men were pronounced dead at the scene.
Who Was Diogo Jota?
- Full Name: Diogo Teixeira da Silva Jota
- Age: 28
- Clubs: Jota began his professional career at Paços de Ferreira in Portugal, before moving to Atlético Madrid, FC Porto (on loan), Wolverhampton Wanderers, and finally Liverpool FC.
- Liverpool Career: Since joining Liverpool in 2020 for £45 million, Jota has made 182 appearances and scored 65 goals. He was a key player in Liverpool’s Premier League-winning squad in the 2024-25 season and also won the FA Cup and Carabao Cup.
- International Career: Jota represented Portugal 49 times, scoring 14 goals, and was part of the squad that won the UEFA Nations League twice
Personal Life and Recent Events
- Family: Jota had recently married his long-time partner, Rute Cardoso, just ten days before the accident. The couple had three children together.
- Brother: André Silva, 25, also a professional footballer, played for Portuguese club Penafiel.
Tributes and Reactions
- Clubs & Teammates: Liverpool FC, FC Porto, Wolverhampton Wanderers, and the Portuguese Football Federation have all expressed their shock and sorrow. The Portuguese national team described Jota as “an extraordinary person, respected by all teammates and opponents”.
- Public Figures: Portugal’s Prime Minister Luís Montenegro called the news “unexpected and tragic,” offering condolences to the family and the football community.
- Supporters: Social media has been flooded with tributes from fans, fellow players, and clubs worldwide, reflecting the impact Jota had both on and off the pitch.
Jota’s Legacy
- On the Field: Known for his speed, balance, and clinical finishing, Jota was admired for his work ethic and ability to perform in crucial moments.
- Off the Field: Beyond his football achievements, Jota was celebrated for his positive attitude, leadership, and commitment to his family and community.
If you want to stay updated on this developing story, follow official club and news sources for the latest information as the football community continues to honor Diogo Jota’s memory.
Diogo Jota dies—a phrase no football fan wanted to read. His legacy as a player and person will be remembered for years to come.