Portuguese footballer Diogo Jota, a forward for Liverpool FC, has tragically died in a car accident in Spain at the age of 28. The fatal crash also claimed the life of his younger brother, Andre Jota, 26, who was also a professional footballer.
According to Marca, the accident occurred on Thursday morning along the A-52 highway near Palacios de Sanabria in the province of Zamora. Emergency services in Castilla y León confirmed receiving multiple reports of a vehicle engulfed in flames at Kilometer 65 of the A-52, in the municipality of Cernadilla.
A statement from regional authorities read: “1-1-2 Castilla y León operations room received several calls reporting a vehicle accident… a car was reported to have been involved in an accident and the vehicle was on fire.” Emergency responders, including traffic police and firefighters, were dispatched to the scene, but both occupants were declared dead.
The tragic accident comes just 10 days after Jota married his longtime partner Rute Cardoso in a ceremony shared on social media. The couple, who have three children, had posted photos of their wedding on Instagram with the caption: “June 22, 2025. Yes to forever.”
Diogo Jota got married on 22 June 2025 to fiancé Rute Cardoso.
Jota joined Liverpool from Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2020 for £41 million and quickly became a key figure in Jurgen Klopp’s attacking lineup. Known for his versatility and sharp goal-scoring instincts, he was a fan favourite and an integral part of the club’s recent successes.
The football world is in mourning, with tributes pouring in from teammates, clubs, fans, and international football bodies. Liverpool FC has yet to release an official statement.
Jota’s sudden death leaves a deep void in both his family and the global football community.
Written By Rodney Mbua
