Liverpool and Portugal Star Diogo Jota Dies in Car Crash Alongside His Fellow Footballer Andre Silva.
Liverpool and Portugal Star Diogo Jota Dies in Car Crash Aged 28
What happened
Diogo Jota, 28, the prolific Liverpool and Portugal forward, tragically died in a car crash early on 3 July in Zamora, Spain, while travelling with his 25-year-old brother, André Silva. Their Lamborghini reportedly suffered a tyre blowout while overtaking on the A‑52, veered off the road, and burst into flames, killing both instantly. Jota had recently married Rute Cardoso and was a father to three young children. Both brothers’ funerals will be held in their hometown of Gondomar, Porto.
Why it matters
Jota was at the peak of his career, scoring 65 goals in 182 games for Liverpool, winning the Premier League, FA Cup, League Cup, and playing a pivotal role in Portugal’s UEFA Nations League triumphs. His death not only halts a beloved athlete’s life and career but also shocks the football community, an alarming reminder of life’s fragility beyond sport.
Reaction
Tributes flooded in from across football. Liverpool manager Arne Slot described Jota as “a friend to everyone”. Jürgen Klopp admitted he was “heartbroken”, while Cristiano Ronaldo lamented, “It doesn’t make any sense”. UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin praised Jota’s passion and spirit. Fans left flowers and scarves at Anfield, and Bundesliga side Bayern Munich held a minute’s silence before training.
What next
Liverpool has opened a digital and in-person book of condolences and closed parts of Anfield as flags fly at half-mast. The club are providing support to his young family and teammates during the grieving process. Football authorities plan moments of silence at upcoming matches, including Women’s Euro fixtures. Police continue investigating the crash, and the funerals in Porto on Saturday will mark a poignant farewell to the Jota brothers.
