Liverpool F.C. star Diogo Jota dies in car crash at 28.

Diogo Jota/Instagram

Liverpool Star Diogo Jota Killed in Car Crash in Spain, Brother Also Dead

ZAMORA, SPAIN — July 2, 2025 — Liverpool and Portugal forward Diogo Jota has died in a car crash in northwestern Spain, just days after marrying his long-time partner. He was 28. The accident also claimed the life of his younger brother, André Silva, 26.

According to Spanish authorities, the crash occurred shortly after midnight near Zamora, a province in the autonomous community of Castile and León. The two brothers were traveling in a Lamborghini that left the road during an overtaking maneuver. Preliminary reports indicate that a tyre blowout caused the vehicle to lose control before crashing into a ditch.

Emergency services arrived quickly but were unable to save either occupant. Both were pronounced dead at the scene.

Jota’s sudden death has stunned the world of football and left fans, teammates, and former coaches in mourning. The forward had recently returned from a short honeymoon after marrying Rute Cardoso, with whom he shared three young children.

Career and Legacy

Jota joined Liverpool in 2020 from Wolverhampton Wanderers and quickly established himself as a key member of Jürgen Klopp’s squad. Over five seasons, he scored 65 goals in 182 appearances, contributing to Liverpool’s success in winning the Premier League, FA Cup, and League Cup during his tenure.

A two-time UEFA Nations League winner with Portugal, Jota was widely respected both on and off the pitch. Known for his technical ability, work ethic, and versatility in attack, he also maintained a reputation as a humble and grounded professional.

Prior to joining Liverpool, Jota played a pivotal role in helping Wolves win promotion to the Premier League in 2018 and enjoyed a successful early career with clubs including Atlético Madrid and FC Porto.

Widespread Tributes

In a statement released early Thursday morning, Liverpool Football Club said it was “devastated” by the news, calling Jota “a beloved teammate, a proud family man, and an exceptional talent who gave everything for the club.”

The Portuguese Football Federation issued a similar tribute, describing Jota as “not only a fantastic player but an extraordinary person who was respected by all his teammates and opponents.”

Cristiano Ronaldo, a teammate of Jota on the national team, posted a message of grief on social media, writing: “Words fail. Rest in peace, Diogo. Portugal mourns you.”

Portugal’s Prime Minister Luis Montenegro said in a statement: “The loss of Diogo Jota and his brother is both unexpected and tragic. It is a sad day for football, for sport, and for the nation.”

In England, tributes poured in from across the Premier League. Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher told Sky Sports that he was “in a state of shock,” adding, “This is one of those rare moments where the entire football world comes together in sorrow.”

Investigations Underway

Local police in Zamora have opened an investigation into the incident. A spokesperson confirmed that a tyre malfunction appears to be the leading cause of the crash. Toxicology reports and a full accident reconstruction are pending.

Final Farewell

Details regarding memorial services or funeral arrangements have not yet been made public, though Liverpool FC has said the club will hold a formal tribute ahead of their next match.

Jota leaves behind his wife and three children. His death comes not only as a deep personal tragedy to those who knew him but also as a loss to football fans around the world who watched his rise from Portuguese youth academies to the global stage.

Diogo Jota/Instagram