Diogo Jota, Liverpool and Portugal Star, Dies in Car Crash at 28—Just Days After Wedding

Diogo Jota, a standout forward for Liverpool FC and the Portuguese national team, died in a tragic car crash in Spain early Thursday morning. He was 28 years old. His younger brother, André Silva, 26, also died in the accident.

The crash occurred around 12:30 a.m. on July 3 in Zamora, Spain, according to Spanish authorities. Their vehicle reportedly veered off the A-52 highway and caught fire. Officials confirmed no other vehicles were involved.

Days After His Wedding, Tragedy Struck

Jota’s death comes less than two weeks after his wedding to longtime partner Rute Cardoso on June 22. The couple shared three children. Just hours before the crash, Jota had posted a joyful video from their wedding with the caption: “A day we will never forget.”

Football World in Shock

The Portuguese Football Federation and Liverpool FC both issued emotional statements, confirming the news and offering condolences. Liverpool wrote: “The club is devastated by the tragic passing of Diogo Jota and his brother André.” They also asked for privacy as the family and team mourn an “unimaginable loss.”

Cristiano Ronaldo, who played alongside Jota for Portugal, shared his grief on social media: “We were just in the national team together, and now this. It doesn’t make sense.”

A Beloved Player and Teammate

Jota made 49 appearances for Portugal, scoring 14 goals. He debuted in 2019 and was part of Portugal’s UEFA Nations League victories in both 2019 and 2025. He had recently helped Portugal win another Nations League title on June 8, just weeks before his passing.

At the club level, Jota joined Liverpool in 2020 from Wolverhampton Wanderers in a $54 million transfer. He became a key part of the squad, scoring 65 goals in 182 appearances and helping Liverpool win the Premier League title in 2025.

The Legacy He Leaves Behind

Teammates and coaches remembered Jota as a hard-working, humble, and passionate player. His ability to connect with fans, and his tireless commitment on and off the pitch, made him one of football’s most admired figures.

The Portuguese Football Federation called his death “an irreparable loss for Portuguese football,” and asked UEFA to hold a minute’s silence before Portugal’s next Women’s Euro match in his honor.

Jota’s brother, André Silva, was also a professional footballer, playing for FC Penafiel. The loss of both men has left a deep scar on the football community in Portugal and beyond.

How will you remember Diogo Jota’s impact on football—both as a player and a person?

More…

• https://people.com/liverpool-soccer-star-diogo-jota-dies-car-crash-after-wedding-11765963
• https://www.aljazeera.com/sports/2025/7/3/cristiano-ronaldo-diogo-jota-death-car-crash-reaction-liverpool-portugal
• https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6471080/2025/07/03/diogo-jota-profile-liverpool