The global football community is mourning the tragic passing of Liverpool and Portugal forward Diogo Jota, aged 28, and his younger brother, Andre Silva, 25, following a devastating car crash in Spain. The accident, confirmed by Spanish authorities, occurred just days after Jota married his long-term partner, Rute Cardoso. News of their deaths has sent shockwaves across clubs, federations, and fans worldwide.
According to Spanish police, the fatal incident took place shortly after midnight local time on Thursday, July 3, near the northwestern city of Zamora. The Guardia Civil reported that the vehicle, a Lamborghini, left the road while traveling eastward along an isolated stretch of highway. Initial investigations suggest a possible tire blowout may have occurred as the car was attempting to overtake another vehicle, leading to the loss of control.
Following the vehicle leaving the road, it subsequently burst into flames. Emergency services and police responded to the scene near the town of Cernadilla, located on the A-52 highway. Authorities confirmed that Diogo Jota and his brother, Andre Silva, were the only occupants of the car. Visible evidence at the crash site included braking tire marks leading off the road towards damaged guardrails, with the burnt-out car found meters away and surrounding vegetation also destroyed by fire. Forensic analysis is being conducted on the bodies found near the site. No other vehicles were involved in the fatal accident.
Diogo José Teixeira da Silva was a highly acclaimed professional footballer. Born in 1996, he began his senior career with Paços de Ferreira in Portugal before a move to Atletico Madrid in 2016. He spent the 2016-17 season on loan at FC Porto, where his brother Andre was part of the youth setup. Jota then moved to England, joining Wolves in 2017, initially on loan before making the move permanent. He scored 44 goals in 131 appearances for Wolves, becoming a fan favourite.
His impressive form earned him a high-profile transfer to Liverpool in 2020 for £41 million. At Anfield, Jota cemented his reputation as a clinical finisher known for his pace and dribbling ability. He scored 65 goals in 182 appearances for the Reds, contributing significantly to the team’s successes, including winning the FA Cup and League Cup in 2022 and the Premier League title last season. His final goal for the club was the winner in the Merseyside derby against Everton in April.
A Life Cut Short After Recent Joy
The tragedy comes at a particularly poignant time for Diogo Jota. He had recently married his long-term partner and mother of his three children, Rute Cardoso, on June 22 in their hometown of Porto. He had shared pictures of the ceremony on social media. His youngest child was born last year. Jota was on vacation following the football season, having played his final match for Portugal in the Nations League final victory against Spain on June 8. He earned 49 caps for his country, scoring 14 goals since his debut in 2019.
Andre Silva, aged 25, was also a professional footballer. He played as a forward for Portuguese second-tier club Penafiel. Andre spent time in several youth academies, including FC Porto between 2011 and 2017, before joining Gondomar in 2021 and then Penafiel in 2023. He made 59 league appearances over the past two seasons for Penafiel.
Widespread Grief Across Football and Beyond
The news of their deaths prompted an outpouring of grief and tributes from the football community and prominent figures worldwide. Liverpool Football Club issued a statement expressing their devastation at the tragic loss of both brothers, requesting privacy for the family, friends, teammates, and staff during this incredibly difficult time. Fans gathered at Anfield to lay flowers and scarves as a mark of respect.
Jota’s former club, Wolves, released a heartfelt statement declaring they were “heartbroken.” They described Diogo as “adored by our fans, loved by his team-mates and cherished by everyone who worked with him,” adding that the “memories he created will never be forgotten.”
The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) expressed complete devastation at the loss of “two champions.” In a poignant statement, the FPF highlighted that Diogo Jota was “much more than an amazing player” but also “an extraordinary person, respected by all team-mates and opponents, someone with an infectious joy.” They stated that the passing of Diogo and Andre represents “irreparable losses for Portuguese football” and vowed to honour their legacy.
Tributes flowed from teammates and coaches. Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp spoke of deep heartbreak, struggling to comprehend the loss. He remembered Jota as a “fantastic player,” a “great friend,” and a “loving husband and father.” Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo shared his shock and disbelief, noting their recent time together with the national team and Jota’s recent marriage, sending condolences to the family. Liverpool striker Darwin Nunez echoed the pain, recalling Jota’s smile and describing him as a good companion.
Tributes from Prominent Figures
The loss resonated throughout the sports world. Former Liverpool player Jamie Carragher expressed shock, noting how the entire football family unites in grief during such moments. Ex-Reds captain Steven Gerrard and minority owner LeBron James also offered condolences. Tennis legend Rafael Nadal expressed sorrow and support for the grieving family.
Political leaders in Portugal and the UK also commented on the tragedy. Portugal’s Prime Minister, Luis Montenegro, called the news “unexpected and tragic,” mourning the loss of an athlete who “greatly honoured Portugal’s name” and describing it as a “sad day for football.” UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer noted the widespread shock and devastation felt across the country.
European football’s governing body, UEFA, announced a moment of silence would be observed before all upcoming UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 matches as a mark of respect. The Premier League expressed shock and devastation, calling Jota a champion who would be “forever missed.” The Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) highlighted Jota as a loving father, remarkable talent, and a highly respected figure, calling the loss unimaginable.
Clubs where the brothers had connections also paid tribute. FC Porto, where Andre was in the youth ranks and Diogo had a loan spell, expressed shock and deep sorrow. Sporting CP also sent condolences. The collective tributes paint a picture of two young lives tragically cut short, leaving a profound void in the hearts of their families, friends, teammates, and the wider football community.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva?
Liverpool and Portugal forward Diogo Jota, 28, and his younger brother, Andre Silva, 25, tragically died in a car crash in Spain on Thursday, July 3, 2025. According to authorities, their vehicle left the road near Zamora, potentially due to a tire blowout while attempting to overtake another car. The vehicle subsequently caught fire. They were the only occupants and died at the scene.
Who was Andre Silva, Diogo Jota’s brother?
Andre Silva, aged 25, was also a professional football player, like his older brother Diogo Jota. He played as a forward for Portuguese second-tier club Penafiel, having joined them in 2023. Prior to that, he spent time in various youth academies, including FC Porto, where he was between 2011 and 2017.
How has the football world reacted to the deaths of Diogo Jota and Andre Silva?
The news has prompted widespread grief and tributes. Liverpool FC, Wolves, the Portuguese Football Federation, and numerous other clubs and organisations have issued statements expressing devastation. Players, managers, and figures like Jurgen Klopp, Cristiano Ronaldo, Jamie Carragher, Rafael Nadal, and LeBron James have shared condolences and memories. Moments of silence are being held at football matches as a mark of respect for the brothers.
The loss of Diogo Jota, a beloved figure at Liverpool and within the Portuguese national team, alongside his brother, has united the football world in sorrow. The thoughts of many remain with their family, particularly Diogo’s wife Rute Cardoso and their three young children, as they navigate this unimaginable loss.
