Liverpool and Portugal international Diogo Jota has died at the age of 28 following a tragic car accident in Spain, officials have confirmed.
The fatal crash occurred in the province of Zamora, and also claimed the life of Jota’s 26-year-old brother, André Silva, a professional footballer for Portuguese club FC Penafiel. The Spanish civil guard confirmed that both brothers were in the vehicle when it veered off the road and caught fire.
Jota had recently celebrated a major personal milestone, having married his longtime partner Rute Cardoso in Porto just two weeks prior. His final Instagram post was a touching video from the wedding, captioned: “A day we will never forget.”
From Porto to Premier League Stardom
Born in Porto in 1996, Diogo Jota rose through the ranks at Pacos de Ferreira, making his senior debut in 2014 and becoming the youngest player to score for the club in Portugal’s top flight. In 2016, he moved to Spanish side Atletico Madrid, but it was in England where he truly made his name — first with Wolverhampton Wanderers, then at Liverpool, who signed him in 2020.
Over five seasons at Anfield, Jota became a fan favourite, known for his sharp finishing, tireless work rate, and key goals in crucial matches. He helped Liverpool to Premier League, FA Cup, and Carabao Cup titles, becoming a central figure in both Jurgen Klopp’s and recently Arne Slot’s tactical setups.
Just months ago, he lifted the Premier League title for the first time — a crowning achievement in what had been a remarkable career.
Football World Mourns
The Portuguese national team released a statement saying they were “devastated” by the loss of one of their brightest stars. “Jota was not only a fantastic player with almost 50 caps for the national team, but also an extraordinary person respected by all teammates and opponents,” the statement read.
Pedro Proença, president of the Portuguese Football Federation, confirmed Jota’s death and expressed sorrow for both Diogo and André Silva.
“The Portuguese Football Federation and all of Portuguese football are completely devastated by the deaths of Diogo Jota and André Silva… We have lost two champions,” he said.
He added that the federation has requested Uefa to observe a minute of silence ahead of the women’s European Championship match between Portugal and Spain on Thursday.
Prime Minister, Club Release Tributes
Portuguese Prime Minister Luis Montenegro mourned the loss, calling it “unexpected and tragic,” and extended heartfelt condolences to the family.
“It is a sad day for football and for national and international sports,” he posted on social media.
Meanwhile, Liverpool Football Club released an official statement expressing their sorrow:
“Liverpool Football Club are devastated by the tragic passing of Diogo Jota. The club have been informed the 28-year-old has passed away following a road traffic accident in Spain along with his brother, André… We will continue to provide their family with our full support and request privacy during this unimaginable time.”
Final Farewell
Tributes continue to pour in from fans, players, clubs, and officials across the globe. Jota’s impact on and off the pitch has left an indelible mark on world football. His death is not only a loss to Liverpool and Portugal but to the entire global sporting community.