The football world is in shock following the sudden and tragic loss of Liverpool forward Diogo Jota and his younger brother André, who both died in a car crash in Spain’s Zamora province on July 3, 2025. The accident occurred along the A-52 highway near Palacios de Sanabria, where their vehicle reportedly left the road, crashed, and caught fire. Emergency services were quick to respond but unfortunately, both brothers were pronounced dead at the scene.
This devastating news comes just two weeks after Diogo Jota had married his longtime partner, Rute Cardoso. The couple, parents to three children, had recently celebrated their wedding in Portugal, marking what was meant to be a new chapter in their lives. In an interview released only a day before the crash, Jota had spoken joyfully about his family, describing himself as “the luckiest man in the world.” The cruel timing of his passing, so close to such a joyful personal milestone, has deeply shaken his fans and the football community.
Local authorities confirmed that the fatal incident took place at kilometer 65 of the A-52, a major roadway often used by those traveling between Spain and northern Portugal. Upon receiving emergency calls, police, fire crews, and paramedics were dispatched to the scene. However, due to the intensity of the fire, both Jota and his brother André could not be saved.
Jota had become a prominent figure in both club and international football. Since joining Liverpool in 2020, he made 123 appearances and scored 47 goals, becoming a vital part of the team that secured the 2024–25 Premier League title. He also represented Portugal 49 times, contributing 14 goals and helping his nation to a UEFA Nations League victory. His work ethic, infectious spirit, and goal-scoring prowess earned him respect on and off the pitch.
Following the news, both Liverpool FC and the Portuguese Football Federation expressed their profound sorrow. UEFA has confirmed plans for a minute of silence ahead of Portugal’s upcoming Women’s Euro match against Spain, in tribute to the fallen footballers. Diogo Jota, at just 28, leaves behind a heartbroken family, a grieving fanbase, and a legacy defined by talent, humility, and love for the game.
