🕯️ Liverpool Star Diogo Jota Dies in Tragic Car Crash in Spain
Liverpool and Portugal forward, Diogo Jota, has tragically died in a car accident in Spain. The 28-year-old footballer, born on December 4, 1996, lost his life alongside his younger brother, André, in the early hours of Thursday, July 3, 2025, after their vehicle veered off the road and caught fire on the A-52 motorway near Cernadilla, in Zamora province.
According to local authorities, the fatal crash occurred at around 1:00 a.m. local time. Jota and his brother were traveling from Vigo towards Benavente when their car left the road at kilometre 65 of the highway. Emergency services arrived at the scene but both men were confirmed dead, with reports suggesting the car may have suffered a tyre blowout, causing the driver to lose control.
Just two weeks earlier, Diogo Jota had celebrated his wedding to his longtime partner Rute Cardoso, with whom he shared three children. His death comes as a devastating shock to the football world.
Jota was a key figure for Liverpool FC, having joined the Premier League giants in 2020. He scored 47 goals in 123 appearances and played an instrumental role in Liverpool’s recent Premier League title win in May 2025. On the international stage, Jota earned 49 caps and scored 14 goals for Portugal, helping the national team secure two UEFA Nations League titles in 2019 and 2025.
In an emotional statement, Liverpool FC expressed deep sorrow:
“Diogo was not only an exceptional player but also a beloved teammate and friend. His energy, passion, and commitment will forever be remembered.”
The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) also paid tribute, calling Jota a player who brought “joy and pride” to Portuguese fans.
Football icons and fans worldwide, including Gary Neville, Jamie Carragher, and Cristiano Ronaldo, have shared their condolences online. Portugal’s Prime Minister LuĂs Montenegro also mourned the loss, calling it “a national tragedy.”
A minute of silence will be observed at upcoming football matches in his honour.