The tragedy that took the life of Liverpool star Diogo Jota has left a deafening silence in the world of football, a void that seems impossible to fill.
At a Glance
- Liverpool and Portugal forward Diogo Jota, 28, has been killed in a car accident in Spain.
- His brother, André Silva Jota, 30, also a professional footballer, was killed in the same crash.
- The accident was reportedly caused by a rear tire puncture, which caused the vehicle to lose control and catch fire.
- Tributes are pouring in from across the globe, with Liverpool FC saying they are “devastated” by the loss.
A Shocking and Tragic Accident
The world of football is in mourning today after the shocking death of Liverpool and Portugal star Diogo Jota at the age of 28. Jota and his older brother, André Silva Jota, 30, were both killed in a single-vehicle car crash in northwest Spain on Thursday, July 3, 2025.
According to Spanish authorities, the accident occurred near the city of Zamora when the vehicle suffered a rear tire puncture, causing the driver to lose control. The car subsequently caught fire. The loss of the two brothers, both professional footballers, has left their family and the football community reeling.
A Stellar Career Cut Tragically Short
Diogo Jota had established himself as one of Europe’s most dynamic and clinical forwards. Since joining Liverpool from Wolves in 2020, he has become a fan favorite at Anfield, scoring 65 goals in 182 appearances for the club and winning major trophies.
He was also a key player for his country, earning 49 caps for the Portugal national team and scoring 14 goals. The tragedy is made all the more poignant as Jota had recently married his long-term partner, Rute Cardoso, and was the father of three young children.
An Outpouring of Global Tributes
The news has been met with disbelief and an outpouring of grief from across the globe. “Liverpool Football Club are devastated by the tragic passing of Diogo Jota,” the club said in a statement. Fans have begun laying flowers and scarves at the gates of Anfield stadium in tribute.
Liverpool Football Club are devastated by the tragic passing of Diogo Jota.
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) July 3, 2025
The Portuguese government also expressed its sorrow. “The news of the death of Diogo Jota, an athlete who greatly honored Portugal’s name, and his brother is unexpected and tragic,” Portugal’s prime minister, Luís Montenegro, said in a statement reported by The Guardian. “It is a sad day for football and for national and international sports.”
The Portuguese Football Federation has announced that a minute’s silence will be held before all upcoming matches in the country to honor the memory of the two brothers.
