▪️What Cristiano Ronaldo, Steven Gerard, LeBron James, Rafael Nadal, others said about the winger
▪️From Wedding To Death: What you need to about the Portuguese international
▪️The tragic accident also took the life of his younger brother, André Filipe Teixeira da Silva
Liverpool and Portugal forward Diogo Jota and his brother, André Silva, were killed in a car crash near Zamora, Spain, police said Thursday.
Liverpool FC, the Portuguese Prime Minister Luís Montenegro and Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) also confirmed the incident.
The Spanish Civil Guard confirmed to The Associated Press that Jota and his brother were found dead after their car went off a road on an isolated stretch of highway about an hour west of Zamora. Authorities said the car — a Lamborghini, according to police — was in flames.
Firefighters were called in as the fire spread to nearby vegetation, authorities said.
Police were investigating the causes of the crash, which happened past midnight local time. They said there were no other vehicles involved. The bodies were undergoing forensic analysis.
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It wasn’t clear who was driving the car. Police were looking into the hypothesis that the crash happened because of a blown tire.
Jota, who was 28, and his brother, who was 25, were both Portuguese players and the only ones in the car, police said.
Jota’s death comes weeks after he married Rute Cardoso and in a social media post wrote, “Yes to forever.” They have three children, the youngest born last year.
The Man Jota
Born on December 4, 1996, in Porto, Portugal, Jota rose through the football ranks with determination and flair, earning respect across Europe for his explosive performances and versatility in attack.
The right-footed attacker, who could also play as a left or right winger, began his professional journey in Portugal before gaining international acclaim.
Jota joined Liverpool FC on September 19, 2020, from Wolverhampton Wanderers and became a crucial part of the Reds’ attacking options.
As of May 2025, his market value stood at €40 million, peaking at €60 million in December 2021. He extended his Liverpool contract in August 2022, which was due to expire in 2027.
During his career, Jota amassed 398 club appearances across major competitions, scoring 136 goals and providing 66 assists.
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He played 190 Premier League matches, scoring 63 goals and registering 24 assists.
His goal-scoring prowess was also seen in the UEFA Champions League (6 goals), Europa League (9 goals), and domestic cups.
The striker had just recently gotten married on June 28 to his partner, Rute Cardoso.
Tributes
Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal and Al Nassr forward
“It doesn’t make sense. We were only just in the national team together, you had only just got married.
“To your family, your wife and your children, I send my condolences and wish them all the strength in the world. I know you’ll always be with them.
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“Rest in peace, Diogo and Andre. We’ll all miss you.”
Steven Gerrard, ex-Liverpool captain
“RIP Diogo. Condolences to his family and friends during this incredibly sad time.”
LeBron James, NBA star and Liverpool minority owner
“My prayers goes out to his loved ones during this time! May you all be guided and protected! YNWA JOTA!!”
Rafael Nadal, tennis legend
“What sad and painful news. All my love, affection and support go out to his wife, children, family and friends at this difficult time. Rest in peace, Diogo Jota and Andre Silva.”
Luis Montenegro, Portugal Prime Minister
“The news of the death of Diogo Jota, an athlete who greatly honoured Portugal’s name, and his brother is unexpected and tragic. I extend my deepest condolences to their family. It is a sad day for football and for national and international sports.”
Keir Starmer, United Kingdom Prime Minister
“There are millions of Liverpool fans, but also football fans, non fans, who will also be shocked by this.
Premier League
“Everyone at the Premier League is shocked and devastated to learn of the tragic passing of Diogo Jota and his brother Andre. Our sincerest condolences go to Diogo’s family, friends, Liverpool FC, and all their supporters at this heartbreaking time.
“Football has lost a champion who will be forever missed. We will continue to support our friends and colleagues at the club.”
Platforms Africa
