KEY POINTS
- Liverpool forward Diogo Jota and his brother Andre died in a car crash near Zamora, Spain
- Jota, a Premier League winner and Portugal international, will be honoured with a moment of silence at UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 matches
MADRID, Spain: The world of football was plunged into mourning on Thursday as Liverpool’s Portuguese forward Diogo Jota, 28, tragically lost his life in a devastating car crash near Zamora in northwestern Spain. His brother, Andre Silva, 26, also perished in the accident.
According to Spanish state broadcaster TVE, the vehicle burst into flames shortly after midnight, leaving both occupants dead before emergency responders could intervene.
Firefighters from Castille-Leon confirmed the ages of the deceased but withheld identities as police continued their formal investigation.
However, officials told Reuters that all evidence supports the identities of the victims being Jota and his younger brother.
The tragedy comes less than a week after Jota celebrated his wedding on June 28—a moment that marked the beginning of a new chapter in his life, now cruelly cut short.
Liverpool grieves a legend
Liverpool FC issued a heart-wrenching statement on social media:
“Liverpool FC is devastated by the tragic passing of Diogo Jota. The club have been informed that the 28-year-old has passed away following a road traffic accident in Spain along with his brother, Andre. We request privacy for the family, friends, teammates and staff as they navigate this unimaginable loss.”
Jota, who joined the Reds from Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2020, became a vital figure at Anfield. Over 182 appearances, he netted 65 goals and helped Liverpool secure multiple titles, including the Premier League, FA Cup, and League Cup.
National icon
Beyond club glory, Jota proudly represented Portugal on the international stage, earning 49 caps and winning the UEFA Nations League twice.
His dynamic play and infectious spirit made him a fan favourite and a respected figure in locker rooms across Europe.
In a mark of honour, UEFA announced that a moment of silence will be observed before all Thursday and Friday matches at the Women’s Euro 2025, including Portugal’s clash with Spain.
Tributes from around the globe
Portugal’s Prime Minister Luis Montenegro called the news “unexpected and tragic,” extending heartfelt condolences to the grieving family. “It is a sad day for football and for national and international sports.”
The Portuguese Football Federation described Jota as not just an exceptional athlete but a “joyful soul” and a role model.
“We have lost two champions. Their deaths represent irreparable losses for Portuguese football.”
Former Liverpool great Jamie Carragher said he was “devastated,” and Portugal international Ruben Neves poignantly added, “They say we only lose people when we forget them. I will never forget you.”
Clubs including FC Porto and Sporting CP echoed the sorrow. FC Porto wrote, “FC Porto is in mourning… Rest in peace.”
While Sporting CP noted, “The world of football is poorer today.”
