In a tragic turn of events that has sent shockwaves throughout the football world, Liverpool and Portugal forward Diogo Jota has died in a traffic accident in Spain. The 28-year-old star, who was traveling with his younger brother Andre Silva, also a professional footballer, lost his life when their Lamborghini veered off the A-52 highway near Palacios de la Sierra and caught fire in the early hours of July 3, 2025.
According to multiple European media reports, including Spain’s Marca and England’s Daily Mail and BBC, the accident occurred around 00:30 local time. Witnesses described the vehicle bursting into flames after a tire burst during an overtaking maneuver, causing it to leave the road and ignite. Sadly, both Jota and his brother perished at the scene, with the fire reportedly spreading to nearby vegetation, intensifying the calamity.
Born in Porto, Portugal, in 1996, Diogo Jota’s football journey began at Pacos de Ferreira where he made his professional debut in 2014. His talent soon took him to Spain’s Atlético Madrid, followed by a loan spell back at Porto, before making a significant impact at Wolverhampton Wanderers in England starting in 2017. His performances there earned him a move to Liverpool in 2020, where he became a key figure in the club’s attacking line.
Despite battling injuries throughout his career, Jota’s sharp goal-scoring instincts, intelligent movement, and tactical flexibility made him indispensable to Liverpool’s setup. Over five seasons, he appeared in 182 official matches for the Reds, netting 65 goals and playing a crucial role in their 2024-2025 Premier League title-winning campaign. His versatility allowed him to operate both as a central striker and on the wings, contributing not only goals but also vital link-up play.
Jota’s influence extended to the international stage as well. He earned 49 caps for the Portuguese national team, scoring 14 goals. Alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, he featured in major tournaments such as Euro 2020 and the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. He was also instrumental in Portugal’s UEFA Nations League triumphs in 2018-2019 and most recently in the 2024-2025 season.
Adding to the heartbreak, the accident occurred just two weeks after Jota celebrated his wedding with longtime partner Rute Cardoso. The couple had been together since 2013 and shared three children, with their wedding ceremony held in Portugal on June 22, 2025. Jota had recently shared photos and videos from the joyous occasion on his social media accounts, which have since become a poignant tribute as fans worldwide flood his pages with condolences.
Portuguese Football Federation president Fernando Gomes expressed profound sorrow over the loss, stating, "The Portuguese Football Federation and the entire football community are shocked by the tragic death of Diogo Jota. He was not only an outstanding player with nearly 50 international appearances but also a respected figure admired by teammates and opponents alike. His passion and exemplary character made him a role model within the football family."
Liverpool Football Club also released a statement mourning the loss of their forward, describing the news as "deeply saddening" and confirming that a memorial site has been established at Anfield Stadium. Fans have been visiting the home ground to pay their respects, leaving flowers and tributes in honor of a player who was central to the club’s recent successes.
Jota’s career was marked by his adaptability and commitment. Coaches praised his ability to execute tactical instructions, his intelligent positioning, and his knack for finding space without the ball. His heading ability and sense on the pitch were often highlighted as key attributes that complemented Liverpool’s dynamic attacking style under manager Jürgen Klopp.
His journey from a promising talent in Portugal to a Premier League champion and national team stalwart is a testament to his dedication and skill. He played a pivotal role in Wolverhampton Wanderers’ promotion to the Premier League and subsequently helped Liverpool maintain their status as one of Europe’s top clubs.
The football community is still coming to terms with the sudden loss of Diogo Jota, whose life and career were tragically cut short at the age of 28. His legacy, however, endures through his contributions on the pitch and the memories cherished by fans, teammates, and family alike.
As investigations into the accident continue, the world pauses to remember a gifted athlete and beloved figure whose promising future was overshadowed by unforeseen tragedy. Liverpool and Portugal have lost not just a player but a passionate competitor and a cherished teammate.
