Monday, 25 May 2026
Diogo Jota scored nine goals from 37 appearances for Liverpool last season (Credit: EPA)
Liverpool forward Jota dies in car accident
Liverpool star Diogo Jota has died at the age of 28 following a tragic car accident, BBC reported on Thursday. His brother, Andre Silva—a fellow professional footballer for Portuguese second-division club Penafiel and aged 25—also lost his life in the crash, which occurred in Zamora, Spain.
According to Spain's Guardia Civil, the incident took place around 00:30 local time on Thursday. The brothers’ Lamborghini reportedly suffered a tyre blowout while overtaking another vehicle, veered off the road, and subsequently caught fire.
Just eleven days ago, Jota married his longtime partner Rute Cardoso, with whom he shared three children. He had recently shared photos from their June 22nd wedding ceremony on social media.
Liverpool expressed their profound grief at Jota’s passing. Signed from Wolves for £41 million in 2020, Jota scored 65 goals in 182 games for the Reds and was instrumental in their 2022 FA Cup and League Cup victories, as well as their triumph in last season’s Premier League.
Jota began his English football journey with Wolves, arriving initially on loan from Atletico Madrid in 2017 before sealing a permanent move. Over three seasons at Molineux, he scored 44 times in 131 matches.
In a statement, Wolves said, “We are heartbroken. Diogo was adored by our fans, loved by his teammates, and cherished by everyone at the club. The memories he leaves behind will remain forever. Our deepest sympathies are with the families, friends, and loved ones of Diogo and Andre.”
Jota, who made his international debut in 2019, played his last game for Portugal on June 8, helping the national team defeat Spain in the Nations League final. He ended his international career with 14 goals in 49 appearances.
“The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) and the entire Portuguese football community are utterly devastated,” the FPF said in a statement. “Beyond being an incredible player, Diogo Jota was a remarkable person—respected by teammates and opponents alike, known for his infectious enthusiasm, and a true inspiration within the community. We have lost two champions. The deaths of Diogo and Andre Silva are irreparable blows to Portuguese football, and we are committed to honoring their legacies each day.”
UEFA has announced there will be a minute’s silence in memory of the brothers ahead of Thursday’s Women’s European Championship match between Portugal and Spain.