Zamora, Spain / Liverpool, UK – July 3, 2025
In a devastating blow to world football, Diogo Jota, 28, the revered forward for Liverpool FC and the Portugal national team, was killed in a car crash in northwestern Spain in the early hours of July 3. According to local authorities, Jota was travelling on the A‑52 near Palacios de Sanabria in Zamora province when the vehicle veered off the road and burst into flames, claiming his life and that of his brother, André, aged 25‑26, who also perished in the collision.
Emergency services, including firefighters and medical teams, responded promptly to numerous 112 calls. On arrival, they found the car completely ablaze, with both brothers already deceased. The incident reportedly occurred around kilometer 65 of the motorway at approximately 00:35 local time.
Jota had been in Spain on holiday following his wedding to long-time partner Rute Cardoso on June 22. The couple, who have three young children, had recently celebrated their marriage publicly, marking a joyous occasion widely shared by fans and loved ones.
Originally from Porto, Diogo José Teixeira da Silva rose to prominence in Europe with FC Porto and Wolverhampton Wanderers before joining Liverpool in 2020 for a reported £41 million. He quickly became instrumental to the Reds, contributing 47 goals in 123 appearances and playing a key part in their Premier League title win earlier this year.
The football community has been left stunned. Liverpool FC, along with the Portuguese national team, are expected to issue official statements in the coming hours. Tributes from teammates, fans, and fellow professionals around the world have already begun to pour in (vg.no).
A spokesperson from Spanish state broadcaster TVE confirmed the reports, adding that firefighters at the scene had verified Jota’s identity.
At this tragic moment, the world mourns not only a gifted athlete known for his explosive pace and clinical finishing, but also a devoted brother, husband, and father. Both Diogo and André Jota will be remembered with deep sorrow and affection by those lucky enough to have known them.
Further details are awaited as local investigations continue into the exact circumstances of the crash. Our thoughts go out to the Jota family and the entire Liverpool and Portugal football community during this time of heartbreaking loss.
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