The global football community is in mourning following the heartbreaking news that Diogo Jota, the Liverpool and Portugal forward, has tragically died in a car accident in Spain. He was 28.
Also killed in the crash was his younger brother, André Silva, 26, a fellow professional footballer who played for Portuguese club Penafiel in the country’s second division.
According to the Guardia Civil, the fatal accident occurred around 00:30 local time on Thursday in the Spanish province of Zamora. Authorities reported that the brothers were traveling in a Lamborghini when a tyre blowout occurred during an overtaking maneuver, causing the car to veer off the road and burst into flames.
A Nation in Mourning
The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) released a deeply emotional statement:
> “Much more than an amazing player with nearly 50 international appearances, Diogo Jota was an extraordinary person – respected by teammates, opponents, and the entire community. We have lost two champions. Their passing represents an irreparable loss for Portuguese football.”
The FPF also confirmed that it has requested UEFA to observe a minute’s silence before Portugal’s Women’s Euros clash against Spain later today.
Just Married, Just Celebrated
Jota’s death comes just weeks after his wedding to long-time partner Rute Cardoso, with whom he shares three children. The couple were married on June 22, a moment Jota proudly shared on social media, showcasing their family’s joy.
A Legacy of Glory
Jota’s footballing legacy includes winning the Premier League title with Liverpool last season and being part of the Portuguese squad that beat Spain in the Nations League final just last month.
His journey also saw him excel during his 2016–17 loan spell at FC Porto, where his brother André also played as a youth prospect.
Liverpool FC and Global Tributes
Liverpool FC released a heartfelt statement:
> “It is with shock and deep sorrow that we send our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Diogo Jota and his brother André Silva. Rest in peace.”
Fans, players, and clubs worldwide are flooding social media with tributes, honoring a player whose skill, heart, and humility touched millions.
Danchima Media will continue to follow this story and bring updates as the football world remembers one of its brightest stars — a champion on the pitch and a gentleman off it.
🕊️ Rest in peace, Diogo Jota and André Silva.
Your legacy will live on.
