The football world united in grief on July 5, 2025, as loved ones gathered in Gondomar, portugal, to bid a heartbreaking farewell to Liverpool and Portugal star diogo Jota, 28, and his younger brother, Andre Silva, 25. Both brothers tragically lost their lives in a car accident earlier in the week. Central to the somber ceremony was Diogo’s wife, Rute Cardoso, whose profound grief was visibly evident as she played an active role in carrying her late husband’s coffin following the funeral mass at Igreja Matriz church.
Rute Cardoso, dressed in white, was deeply emotional. Witnesses described her breaking down and appearing overwhelmed by sorrow while assisting pallbearers. Photos captured her tears and moments where she rested her forehead against the tear-soaked casket. The poignant scene underscored the depth of her loss, coming just 11 days after her “perfect” wedding to Diogo on June 22nd. The couple shared three young children: Dinis (4), Duarte (2), and baby Mafalda (8 months), none of whom attended the service.
A Community United in Sorrow
Hundreds of mourners, including a large contingent from the football community, filled the historic church, with many others listening to a livestream outside. The service began with the arrival of both brothers’ coffins, accompanied by violins and respectful applause. Music central to Jota’s wedding, including Schubert’s Ave Maria, was performed, adding a layer of painful irony to the proceedings.
The Bishop of Porto, D. Manuel Linda, led the mass. In a message tailored for Diogo and Rute’s young children, he acknowledged their potential suffering and the unparalleled pain of seeing two coffins. He encouraged faith and highlighted the brothers’ dedication and embodiment of sportsmanship values like respect and discipline. Hymns like The Lord is My Shepherd were also played, providing solace amidst the overwhelming sorrow.
Football Icons Pay Respects
The funeral saw a remarkable turnout of past and present teammates, managers, and officials, underscoring the impact Diogo Jota had on the sport. Numerous Liverpool figures traveled to Portugal, including captain Virgil van Dijk, Andrew Robertson, goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher, and manager Arne Slot. Van Dijk carried a red floral tribute shaped like Jota’s No. 20 jersey, while Robertson carried a similar tribute for Andre Silva in the form of his No. 30 shirt. Former Liverpool stars like Jordan Henderson, who reportedly broke down in tears visiting the Anfield memorial, James Milner, Joe Gomez, Darwin Nunez, Alexis Mac Allister, Ryan Gravenberch, and former players Fabinho and Thiago Alcantara were also present.
The Portuguese national team was equally well-represented. Ruben Neves, making a swift return from the Club World Cup, served as a pallbearer for Diogo. Joao Cancelo, Ruben Dias, Bernardo Silva, Nelson Semedo, and Joao Felix were among the national team members attending. Former Portugal coach Fernando Santos and current manager Roberto Martinez, along with Portuguese Football Federation head Pedro Proenca and agent Jorge Mendes, paid their respects. FC Porto President Andre Villas Boas and the Portuguese Minister of Sports Margarida Balseiro Lopes also attended the packed service. Notably, Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo, while not present, sent a heartfelt message of condolence to the family.
The Tragic Circumstances
The brothers died in the early hours of Thursday, July 3rd, 2025, near Zamora, Spain. The Lamborghini Huracan they were driving veered off the A-52 highway and tragically burst into flames. Investigators suggested a suspected tire blowout may have caused the crash. Reports indicated Diogo was driving, traveling to the Spanish port of Santander to catch a ferry to the UK. This mode of transport was reportedly chosen on medical advice following recent lung surgery, as flying was not recommended. The sudden and violent nature of the accident amplified the shock felt across the football world.
Outpouring of Global Grief
The loss of Diogo and Andre sparked a global outpouring of tributes. Beyond the formal funeral, memorials emerged spontaneously. At Anfield, Liverpool’s historic home ground, fans created a poignant memorial of flowers, scarves, shirts, and messages. The Diogo Jota football academy near Gondomar also saw a similar display of community grief and remembrance. Liverpool Football Club expressed its devastation and requested privacy for the family, later postponing pre-season activities as a mark of respect. Manager Arne Slot urged the Liverpool community to unite and support each other. Forward Mohamed Salah admitted the tragedy made him hesitant to return to the club initially.
Official tributes came from high levels. Portugal Prime Minister Luís Montenegro described it as “a sad day for soccer and for national and international sports.” Portugal manager Roberto Martinez spoke of the team’s unity as a “large, close family,” ensuring the brothers’ spirit would always remain with them.
Unique tributes highlighted the breadth of his impact. The prestigious Wimbledon tennis tournament, known for its strict all-white dress code, made a rare exception, allowing players to wear black armbands in honor of Diogo Jota and Andre Silva – a powerful symbol of cross-sport solidarity. British rock band Oasis dedicated their iconic song “Live Forever” to Jota during a concert, displaying his image to thousands of fans.
A Legacy Remembered
Diogo Jota’s passing cuts short a vibrant career marked by success and dedication. He earned 49 caps for Portugal and was a key player in their Nations League triumph just weeks before his death. His time at Liverpool since 2020 saw him score 65 goals in 182 appearances, becoming a fan favorite known for his clinical finishing and energetic play. Former club Wolves also sent representatives to the funeral, including Joao Moutinho and Rui Patricio, bringing a Wolves-themed wreath.
While the pain is unimaginable, especially for Rute Cardoso and the children, Virgil van Dijk pledged ongoing support from the Liverpool community, vowing to “always be there for your family.” Reports also suggested Liverpool FC planned to pay the remainder of Jota’s contract to his family, offering some potential financial stability amidst the tragedy. The brothers were laid to rest in the nearby Sao Cosme cemetery, their burial marking a final farewell for those gathered, though police were reportedly called later due to fans gathering at the graveside. A seventh-day mass is scheduled for the following Wednesday, continuing the period of mourning.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to Diogo Jota and his brother?
Liverpool footballer Diogo Jota, 28, and his younger brother Andre Silva, 25, died in a tragic car accident on July 3, 2025. The Lamborghini they were in crashed and caught fire on a highway near Zamora, Spain. Initial reports suggested a suspected tire blowout may have caused the accident. Diogo was reportedly driving to take a ferry to the UK to avoid flying after recent surgery.
Where was the funeral held and who attended?
A joint funeral service for Diogo Jota and Andre Silva was held on July 5, 2025, at Igreja Matriz church in Gondomar, Portugal, their hometown. The emotional ceremony was attended by devastated family, friends, and a significant number of football figures. Attendees included Liverpool manager Arne Slot, captain Virgil van Dijk, and teammates like Andrew Robertson and Jordan Henderson, as well as Portugal national team members such as Ruben Neves (who was a pallbearer) and Bernardo Silva. Hundreds more gathered outside.
What is known about Diogo Jota’s family and recent life events?
Diogo Jota is survived by his wife, Rute Cardoso, and their three young children: Dinis (4), Duarte (2), and Mafalda (8 months). Diogo and Rute had been partners for 10 years and married just 11 days before the accident, on June 22, 2025. Diogo had recently celebrated helping Portugal win the UEFA Nations League just weeks prior. His wife Rute played a prominent role in carrying his coffin at the funeral and was visibly overcome with grief.
The loss of Diogo Jota and Andre Silva leaves a void in their family, the football world, and the communities they touched. The outpouring of grief and support seen at the funeral and globally underscores the impact of their lives, particularly Diogo’s as a beloved player and family man. As tributes continue, the focus shifts to supporting Rute Cardoso and the children through this unimaginable time.
