The football world is in mourning following the sudden and tragic death of Diogo Jota, the 28-year-old Portuguese forward for Liverpool FC, who died in a car crash in Zamora, Spain, in the early hours of July 3, 2025. The accident also claimed the life of his younger brother, André Silva, a 26-year-old professional footballer playing for FC Penafiel in Portugal’s second division2. How the Accident Happened
According to emergency services in the Castilla y León region, the crash occurred around 12:40 AM on the A-52 highway near Palacios de Sanabria. The vehicle, reportedly driven by Jota, veered off the road and caught fire, with flames spreading to nearby vegetation. Both occupants were declared dead at the scene by medical responders3.
Local authorities confirmed that the car was engulfed in flames upon impact, and despite the swift arrival of firefighters and emergency medical teams, neither Jota nor his brother could be saved. The cause of the crash is still under investigation, though no foul play is suspected at this time.
A Life Cut Short
Jota’s death comes just two weeks after his wedding to longtime partner Rute Cardoso in Porto. The couple shared three children. His sudden passing has sent shockwaves through the football community, with tributes pouring in from fans, teammates, and clubs around the world.
Jota joined Liverpool in 2020 from Wolverhampton Wanderers and made 182 appearances, scoring 65 goals and providing 26 assists. He was instrumental in Liverpool’s recent Premier League title win and had also lifted the FA Cup and Carabao Cup during his time at Anfield.
National Mourning
The Portuguese Football Federation expressed deep sorrow, calling Jota “an extraordinary person” and “a reference in the community.” A minute of silence was observed before Portugal’s Women’s Euro match against Spain, and tributes were shared by clubs including FC Porto, where both brothers had trained in their youth.
As investigations continue, the football world remembers Diogo Jota not just as a gifted athlete, but as a beloved teammate, family man, and role model whose legacy will endure far beyond the pitch.