Fatal Crash Near Zamora
Spanish police confirmed the 28-year-old Portuguese international and his 25-year-old brother were killed when their Lamborghini veered off a highway near the northwestern city of Zamora and burst into flames.
The crash occurred shortly after midnight local time on an isolated stretch of road. Both men were found dead inside the burned-out vehicle.
“The car was incinerated, and they died inside,” Spanish government official Ángel Blanco said. Firefighters responded to the scene as the blaze spread to nearby vegetation.
Investigations Underway
Authorities are investigating the cause of the crash. Police are examining whether a blown tire while overtaking another vehicle may have contributed to the accident.
Images from the crash site published in Spanish media show tire marks veering off the road and damaged guardrails, with the charred wreck resting several meters away.
The Spanish Civil Guard confirmed the victims’ identities and said forensic analysis was underway to clarify details, including who was driving.
Personal Tragedy for the Jota Family
The tragedy comes just weeks after Diogo Jota married his longtime partner, Rute Cardoso, with whom he shared three young children. In a recent social media post he had written “Yes to forever,” celebrating his new chapter.
Jota was also fresh from helping Portugal’s national team win the Nations League last month, underscoring his stature as one of the country’s top players.
André Silva, his brother, was a professional footballer as well, playing for Portuguese club Penafiel in the lower divisions.
Global Football Community Mourns
Liverpool FC said it was “devastated by the tragic passing,” and called for respect for the family’s privacy during “an unimaginable loss.”
“We will continue to provide them with our full support,” the club added.
The Premier League also expressed its condolences, calling Jota “a champion who will be forever missed.” UEFA announced moments of silence at Euro 2025 matches on Thursday and Friday.
Portugal’s Prime Minister Luís Montenegro described the deaths as “unexpected and tragic,” paying tribute to Jota as “an athlete who greatly honored Portugal’s name.”
Emotional Tributes from Peers
Cristiano Ronaldo, Jota’s Portugal teammate, posted a heartfelt message:
“Just now we were together in the national team, just now you had gotten married. My condolences to your family, to your wife and to your children. Rest in peace, Diogo and André. We will all miss you.”
Portuguese Football Federation president Pedro Proença called Portuguese football “completely devastated,” adding:
“More than a fantastic player, Diogo Jota was an extraordinary person, respected by all his colleagues and opponents. He had a contagious joy and was a reference in his community.”
A minute of silence was observed at Thursday’s Women’s European Championship match between Portugal and Spain in Switzerland, with more tributes planned in coming days.
An Illustrious Career Cut Short
Jota joined Liverpool from Wolves in 2020, winning three major trophies with the Merseyside club, including the Premier League title last season. He made nearly 50 appearances for Portugal’s national team, earning widespread admiration for his skill, work rate, and humility.
The tragedy prompted condolences from across sports, with tributes from NBA star and Liverpool minority owner LeBron James, tennis legend Rafael Nadal, and numerous clubs, federations, and leagues worldwide.
Jota and Silva’s passing is not only a devastating loss for their family but a profound blow to football fans everywhere who admired their talent, dedication, and spirit.