Diogo Jota dies in car crash in Spain
Diogo Jota, the 28-year-old Portuguese forward for Liverpool, tragically died in a car crash alongside his brother, André Silva, in northwestern Spain. The accident occurred when their Lamborghini veered off the road and burst into flames near Zamora. Spanish police reported that evidence at the scene suggested the car suffered a burst tire while overtaking another vehicle. Jota had recently married his partner of ten years, Rute Cardoso, and was a father to three children.
The Portuguese Football Federation expressed profound sorrow over the loss, stating, "We have lost two champions," and emphasized their commitment to honoring Jota's legacy in Portuguese football. Portuguese Prime Minister Luis Montenegro also offered condolences, describing the news as unexpected and tragic. Jota was a key player for Liverpool, helping the team secure the Premier League title last season, as well as winning the FA Cup and League Cup during his tenure.
Born in Porto, Jota began his professional career with Paços de Ferreira before moving to Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2017. He joined Liverpool in 2020 for £41 million, where he scored 65 goals in 182 appearances. Jota also represented Portugal 49 times, contributing to their UEFA Nations League victories in 2019 and 2025. Just 11 days before his untimely death, he had married Rute Cardoso.
The football community has been mourning Jota's passing, with Liverpool manager Arne Slot and fellow players expressing their grief. Cristiano Ronaldo expressed disbelief at the news, stating, "It just doesn't make any sense." Fans gathered outside Anfield to pay tribute, singing "You'll Never Walk Alone" in his honor. Jota's final match was Portugal's UEFA Nations League final victory over Spain on June 8, 2025, marking the end of a remarkable career. His untimely death has left a significant void in both Portuguese football and the global football community, with tributes pouring in from around the world.
