Portuguese Football Star Diogo Jota Tragically Dies in Car Accident in Spain at Age 28
In a devastating turn of events, Portuguese footballer Diogo Jota, who played as a forward for English Premier League club Liverpool, has passed away following a car accident in Spain. The 28-year-old athlete died in the early hours of Thursday in a collision that also claimed the life of his younger brother, André Silva, aged 25, who played professionally for FC Penafiel in Portugal.
The fatal crash occurred in the Spanish province of Zamora, which shares a border with Portugal. According to information provided by the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF), the accident happened near the town of Palacios de Sanabria in the northwestern region of Spain. Emergency services responding to the incident confirmed that both individuals died at the scene. Reports indicate the car caught fire after veering off the road, and the flames spread to nearby vegetation. Spanish public broadcaster RTVE revealed that Jota had been driving a Lamborghini at the time of the crash, though the exact cause of the incident is still under investigation by local authorities.
The President of the Portuguese Football Federation, Pedro Proença, issued a heartfelt public statement mourning the loss of the two young athletes. “It is with deep sorrow and immense pain that we receive the news of this tragic accident,” Proença said. “Diogo Jota was not only a remarkable footballer who brought joy to millions but also a symbol of dedication, humility, and passion for the sport.”
The tragic news comes at a particularly poignant time in Jota’s personal life. Less than a week before the accident, Jota had married his longtime partner, Rute Cardoso. The couple, who shared three children together, celebrated their nuptials with friends and family, and Jota posted a heartfelt message on Instagram calling it a day they would “never forget.” Sadly, it became one of his final public messages.
Jota’s professional football journey had made him a beloved figure both in Portugal and in the United Kingdom. He began his career with Paços de Ferreira in his homeland before making a name for himself at clubs like Atlético Madrid, Porto (on loan), and Wolverhampton Wanderers in the English Premier League. In 2020, he signed with Liverpool FC, where he quickly won the hearts of fans through his tireless work ethic, sharp instincts in front of goal, and ability to play in multiple attacking roles.
During his time at Liverpool, Jota scored 65 goals across all competitions and played an instrumental role in the club’s achievements, including securing the Premier League title in 2025. His contributions were not limited to club football. He also represented Portugal on the international stage, playing a key role in helping the national team reach the quarterfinals in the UEFA Euro 2024 tournament.
Jota’s sudden death has sent shockwaves through the football world, with tributes pouring in from teammates, rivals, fans, and sports organizations. Liverpool Football Club is expected to hold a memorial to honor one of its most cherished players in recent history.
As investigations continue into the cause of the crash, the football community collectively mourns the loss of a talented athlete, a devoted family man, and a true ambassador for the sport.
