Liverpool forward Diogo Jota killed in car crash
Diogo Jota, Liverpool and Portugal forward, has tragically been killed in a car crash near Zamora, Spain, in the early hours of July 3, 2025. The 28-year-old footballer was traveling with his younger brother, André Silva, when their vehicle, a Lamborghini, veered off the A-52 motorway after a tire burst during an overtaking manoeuvre. The car struck a barrier, flipped, and caught fire. Emergency services arrived at the scene shortly after 00:35 CET, but both brothers died on impact.
Jota’s death has sent shockwaves through the football community and his homeland. The tragedy comes just 11 days after he married his long-time partner, Rute Cardoso. Together, they had three young children. The couple had shared news of their wedding only recently, and Jota had appeared to be entering a joyful and stable chapter in his life, making the sudden loss even more painful for those who knew him.
Jota began his professional career with Paços de Ferreira in Portugal before rising to prominence at Wolverhampton Wanderers in the English Championship and Premier League. He joined Liverpool in 2020 and quickly became a fan favorite due to his goal-scoring instinct, sharp movement, and relentless energy. Over the course of five seasons at Anfield, he made 182 appearances and scored 65 goals. He played a key role in Liverpool’s successes, helping the club win the Premier League, FA Cup, and League Cup during his time there.
On the international stage, Jota earned nearly 50 caps for the Portuguese national team and was part of the squad that won the UEFA Nations League twice. Known for his versatility, he could play across the front line and brought technical intelligence and composure to every match. His contributions on and off the pitch made him a respected figure among teammates, coaches, and fans.
Tributes have poured in from around the world. Portuguese Prime Minister Luís Montenegro and the president of the Portuguese Football Federation, Pedro Proença, both issued statements expressing deep sorrow. UEFA announced that a minute’s silence would be held before Portugal’s next match in the Women’s European Championship. Across social media and in club statements, former teammates, coaches, and fans remembered Jota as a generous, driven, and deeply loved figure within the sport.
This tragic loss has not only robbed Liverpool and Portugal of a great footballer, but has also devastated a family and a global fanbase. Diogo Jota’s memory will live on through the legacy he leaves behind, on the pitch and in the hearts of those who watched him play.
