Liverpool Mourns the Tragic Death of Diogo Jota and Brother in Car Crash
Liverpool, July 3, 2025 — Liverpool Football Club is in mourning following the tragic death of star winger Diogo Jota, who was killed in a car accident in Zamora, Spain, alongside his brother, André. The 28-year-old Portuguese international, a vital part of Liverpool’s attack since his transfer from Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2020, died just ten days after celebrating his wedding to longtime partner Rute Cardoso.
The fatal crash occurred on the A-52 highway near Palacios de Sanabria, when the vehicle the brothers were traveling in veered off the road and caught fire. Emergency services in the region of Castilla y León confirmed the details of the incident in a public statement.
“The 112 Castilla y León operations room received multiple emergency calls reporting a serious accident at kilometer 65 of the A-52, in the municipality of Cernadilla, Zamora,” officials stated. “Witnesses reported that a vehicle had left the roadway and was engulfed in flames.”
Both Diogo and André Jota were pronounced dead at the scene.
The shocking news has sent waves of grief through the football world, with tributes pouring in from fans, teammates, and fellow athletes across the globe. Liverpool FC released a brief statement expressing their profound sorrow, calling Jota “a beloved member of the Reds family, admired for his talent, spirit, and commitment on and off the pitch.”
Further details are expected to emerge in the coming days as investigations continue.
Liverpool Manager Arne Slot Pays Tribute to Diogo Jota: “A Loss Words Cannot Capture”
Liverpool manager Arne Slot has spoken publicly for the first time since the tragic death of Diogo Jota, expressing the club’s overwhelming grief at the loss of both the Portuguese star and his brother, André.
“Diogo was not just an exceptional player but a remarkable person who brought energy and joy to our team,” Slot said in a heartfelt statement. “His loss, alongside his brother André, is a tragedy that words cannot fully capture. Our hearts are with Rute, their children, and the entire Jota family during this incredibly difficult time.”
Jota, a devoted father of three, had only recently shared a joyful moment with the world—his wedding. On June 22, 2025, just ten days before the accident, he posted on social media: “Yes to forever,” accompanied by touching photos from the ceremony with his wife, Rute Cardoso, and their family. The post quickly went viral, receiving an outpouring of love and congratulations from fans and teammates, including Darwin Núñez.
Jota’s football journey was marked by dedication and relentless growth. He began his professional career at Paços de Ferreira in his native Portugal before securing a move to Atlético Madrid. A loan to FC Porto followed, where he impressed with eight goals, catching the eye of clubs across Europe.
In 2017, Jota joined Wolverhampton Wanderers on a £12 million deal, becoming a key figure in their promotion to the Premier League with 17 goals in his first season. His dynamic attacking style, technical skill, and relentless work rate made him a standout in England’s top flight.
By 2020, his rise culminated in a £41 million transfer to Liverpool, where he quickly became an integral part of Jürgen Klopp’s squad. Known for his versatility, sharp instincts in front of goal, and relentless pressing, Jota scored crucial goals in domestic and European competitions, earning the admiration of fans and teammates alike.
His legacy on the pitch is undeniable—but it is his warmth, humility, and infectious spirit that teammates and supporters will miss most.
As the football world comes to terms with this profound loss, tributes continue to pour in for a player whose career and life were tragically cut short.
