Diogo Jota and brother dies in a fatal crash
The football community is mourning the untimely death of Portuguese forward Diogo Jota, who tragically passed away at the age of 28 following a car accident in Spain.
The fatal crash, which claimed the lives of both Jota and his younger brother André, occurred with no other vehicles involved, according to Spanish authorities.
André, 26, was also a professional footballer, playing for FC Penafiel in Portugal.
Just two weeks ago, Jota shared one of the happiest moments of his life, his wedding to long-time partner Rute Cardoso.
His final Instagram post featured a touching video from their special day, captioned simply: “A day we will never forget.”
Jota’s sudden death has shocked fans around the world, especially coming so soon after one of the highlights of his career, winning his first Premier League title with Liverpool.
The Portuguese international joined the Reds in 2020 from Wolverhampton Wanderers and quickly became a fan favorite for his relentless energy and clinical finishing.
In five years at Anfield, he lifted the Premier League, FA Cup, and League Cup trophies, and scored 65 goals in 182 appearances.
His impact extended well beyond club football. Jota earned nearly 50 caps for Portugal and was part of the squad that twice won the UEFA Nations League.
The national team expressed devastation over the loss, remembering him not only as a phenomenal player but “an extraordinary person who was respected by all his teammates and opponents.”
FC Porto, where Jota spent a season on loan in 2016–17, also expressed deep sorrow.
“It is with shock and deep sorrow that we send our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Diogo Jota and his brother André Silva,” the club shared in a statement.
Pedro Proença, president of the Portuguese Football Federation, also paid tribute, saying: “We lost two champions. The death of Diogo and André Silva represent irreparable losses for Portuguese football and we will do everything to, daily, honour their legacy.”
A minute’s silence is expected to be observed during Portugal’s next UEFA Women’s European Championship match against Spain.
Portuguese Prime Minister Luis Montenegro added: “The news of the death of Diogo Jota, an athlete who greatly honored Portugal’s name, and his brother is unexpected and tragic. It is a sad day for football and for national and international sports.”
Jota’s journey began in Porto, where he joined the youth ranks of Paços de Ferreira in 2013.
He made his senior debut the following year and quickly stood out, becoming the youngest player at the club to score in the top division.
His rise continued with moves to Atlético Madrid, FC Porto (on loan), and Wolverhampton Wanderers before cementing his legacy at Liverpool.
Tributes have flooded in from former players and pundits.
Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher wrote: “Devastating news about Diogo Jota & his brother Andre this morning. Thoughts are with everyone of their family & friends, especially his wife Rute & their three lovely kids.”
Gary Neville, former Manchester United player and now a broadcaster, shared similar sentiments: “That is heartbreaking news on Diogo Jota and his brother. All my love and best wishes to his family.”
