Liverpool & Portugal Mourn Tragic Loss of Diogo Jota, 28, and Brother André After Fatal Crash
Liverpool forward Diogo Jota has died at 28 following a car crash in Cernadilla, Zamora, Spain. The accident, at about 12:30 a.m. local time, also claimed the life of his younger brother, André Silva (25), who played for Portuguese second‑division club Penafiel.
Spanish authorities say a burst tire during an overtaking maneuver caused the Lamborghini to leave the road and catch fire. The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) confirmed the news on Thursday morning.
Jota had married his longtime partner, Rute Cardoso, just two weeks ago. The couple shared three young children.
“Apart from being a fantastic player with nearly 50 caps, Diogo was an extraordinary person whose joy was contagious,” the FPF said.
A Celebrated Career
- Portugal: 49 caps, UEFA Nations League titles in 2019 and 2025
- Liverpool (joined 2020): Premier League, FA Cup, League Cup champion; six goals and four assists in last season’s title‑winning campaign
- Club Journey: Paços de Ferreira → Atlético Madrid → Porto → Wolverhampton Wanderers → Liverpool
Liverpool FC said it was “devastated by the tragic passing of Diogo Jota” and asked for privacy for the family.
Tributes From the Football World
- Cristiano Ronaldo: “It does not make sense… Rest in peace, Diogo and André. We will all miss you.”
- Darwin Núñez: “There are no words of comfort for so much pain… I will always remember your smile.”
- Steven Gerrard: “RIP Diogo 💔 Condolences to his family and friends during this incredibly sad time.”
The entire football community is united in grief at this unimaginable loss.
