In a heartbreaking tragedy that has stunned the football world, Liverpool footballer Diogo Jota and his younger brother André Silva lost their lives in a devastating car crash in Spain in the early hours of Thursday, July 3, 2025. The 28-year-old Portuguese international and 25-year-old André, also a professional footballer, perished when their Lamborghini suffered a tyre blowout while overtaking another vehicle on the A-52 road near Cernadilla in the Zamora province of northwestern Spain. The car veered off the road and immediately burst into flames, tragically ending the lives of both brothers.
Jota's death comes just 11 days after he married his longtime partner, Rute Cardoso, the mother of their three children—two sons and a baby daughter. The couple had shared joyous moments only a day before the crash, with Jota posting a video of their wedding day on Instagram, captioned "A day we will never forget." The funeral service is scheduled for Saturday morning, July 5, in Sao Cosme, just outside Porto, following a wake on Friday.
Diogo Jota’s football journey was marked by remarkable achievements and a deep connection to the sport. Born Diogo Silva in Porto in 1996, he grew up in Gondomar and began his youth career at Paços de Ferreira in 2013. After signing a five-year contract with Atletico Madrid in 2016, he rose to prominence during his time at Wolverhampton Wanderers, where he played a key role in their promotion to the Premier League in the 2017-2018 season and scored Wolves’ first European goal in 39 years against Belfast side Crusaders in 2019.
In September 2020, Liverpool secured Jota’s services for a fee exceeding £40 million. Over five years, he made 123 appearances for the Reds, scoring 47 goals, and was instrumental in Liverpool’s 2024-2025 Premier League title win under head coach Arne Slot. Despite battling injuries that sidelined him for 99 games across club and country, Jota’s impact on the pitch was undeniable. He scored six goals in 26 appearances during the title-winning season and was known for his clinical finishing, explosive pace, and relentless work ethic.
Jota also earned 49 caps for Portugal since his debut in 2019, netting 14 goals and helping his country secure two Nations League titles, including a dramatic victory over Spain in June 2025. His younger brother André Silva, 25, played professionally for Penafiel in Portugal’s second tier, sharing the beautiful bond of football and family with Diogo.
The tragic news has sent shockwaves throughout the football community. Liverpool FC expressed devastation, describing Jota as "truly irreplaceable" and offering unwavering support to his family. The club has opened both physical and digital books of condolence, with the physical book available at Anfield’s Road Stand reception from July 4 to July 6. Fans have flocked to Anfield, laying flowers, scarves, and shirts, while the Liverpool flag flies at half-mast in tribute to their beloved number 20.
Emotions ran high during the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 Group B match between Spain and Portugal at Bern’s Wankdorf Stadium, where players from both sides observed a minute’s silence before kick-off. The Portugal women’s team held aloft a banner reading, "Thanks for everything. Rest in peace," as they suffered a 5-0 defeat on an emotional night. Portugal’s head coach Francisco Neto was visibly moved, reflecting the deep sense of loss felt by the nation.
Tributes poured in from teammates, coaches, and football legends worldwide. Liverpool full-back Conor Bradley shared a heartfelt Instagram post, recalling how Jota welcomed him warmly to the team and even humorously recalling a FIFA video game drubbing. Former Reds midfielder Fabinho described Jota as an "incredible person" and a brother, while Bernardo Silva simply captioned a photo with "Forever with us ❤️." England international Conor Coady remembered Jota as "one of the best players I’ve ever had the privilege of sharing a pitch with," and Liverpool’s Ibrahima Konate emphasized the importance of cherishing every moment, urging the world to live in peace and love.
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk, who played alongside Jota since 2020, expressed his heartbreak, calling him a "champion forever" and promising to support Jota’s family through this unimaginable time. Luis Diaz, Jota’s teammate, spoke of unforgettable gestures and extended his condolences to Rute and the children. UFC star and Liverpool fan Paddy Pimblett recalled the joy of celebrating with Jota at Wembley and the lasting impact of his presence.
Former Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard, along with other footballing greats such as Cristiano Ronaldo, who described the loss as senseless, and Jurgen Klopp, who called Jota a "great friend," have publicly mourned the loss. The Premier League, UEFA, and clubs across Europe, including Manchester United, AC Milan, Everton, and Tottenham Hotspur, have issued heartfelt statements, underscoring the profound impact Jota had on the sport.
Arne Slot, Liverpool’s head coach, revealed his last conversation with Jota was to congratulate him on winning the Nations League and wish him luck for his wedding. Slot described Jota as a person who "never sought popularity but found it anyway," a friend to everyone, and a family man who deeply cared for those around him. He assured that Jota’s legacy will live on at Liverpool, with the club planning meaningful tributes to honor their cherished number 20.
Outside Anfield, fans gathered to sing "You’ll Never Walk Alone," Liverpool’s anthem, creating an emotional and unifying tribute to the fallen star. The outpouring of grief and solidarity reflects the immense loss felt not only by Liverpool but by the entire football community and beyond.
Diogo Jota’s story is one of talent, dedication, and love—a journey from the streets of Porto to the grandest stages in football, leaving an indelible mark on fans and teammates alike. His sudden passing, alongside his brother André, has left a void that will be deeply felt. As the football world mourns, the focus turns to supporting the family and celebrating the extraordinary life and legacy of a footballer and man who inspired so many.
