Portuguese international footballer Diogo Jota and his brother, André Silva, have died in a car accident in northern Spain, Spanish authorities confirmed early Wednesday morning, as reported by BBC.
The fatal crash occurred around 00:30 local time in the municipality of Cernadilla, Zamora province. According to Spain’s Guardia Civil, the Lamborghini in which the two were travelling suffered a tyre blowout while overtaking another vehicle. The car veered off the road and caught fire, killing both occupants instantly.
Jota, 28, had only recently married his long-time partner, Rute Cardoso, in a ceremony on June 22. The couple shared three children and had celebrated their wedding with friends and family less than two weeks prior to the tragedy.
An Outpouring of Tributes
News of the accident has prompted an outpouring of grief from across the footballing world and beyond.
Liverpool Football Club, where Jota had played since 2020, said in a statement it was «devastated by the tragic passing» of the forward and requested privacy for the family as they come to terms with the «unimaginable loss.»
FC Porto, the club where both Jota and his brother had played during their youth careers, said they were in «shock and deep sorrow,» posting a tribute image of the brothers in their Porto kits with the message: «Rest in peace.»
Pedro Proenca, President of the Portuguese Football Federation, described Jota as «much more than an amazing player» and called him «an extraordinary person with infectious joy and deep community ties.» The federation has requested a minute’s silence ahead of Portugal’s upcoming Women’s Euro qualifier against Spain.
UK Reaction
From the House of Commons, UK Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy paid tribute to Jota, calling the news «heartbreaking.» She offered condolences on behalf of Parliament to Jota’s family, friends, and «Liverpool fans across the world.»
A Rising Star Cut Short
Jota rose to prominence at Wolverhampton Wanderers before making a high-profile move to Liverpool in 2020. He made nearly 50 appearances for the Portuguese national team and was part of the squad that won the UEFA Nations League.
Known for his versatility, pace and eye for goal, Jota quickly became a fan favourite at Anfield, admired for both his technical skill and humility off the pitch.
His brother, André Silva, also played professionally, including spells in the Portuguese lower leagues.
Investigations Underway
Local authorities continue to investigate the circumstances of the crash. The Guardia Civil confirmed that the vehicle’s high speed and tyre failure were likely contributing factors.
Further updates are expected as both clubs and the Portuguese government prepare to honour the memory of two young lives lost far too soon.
