Diogo Jota, the Portuguese forward and star player for Liverpool, has tragically died at the age of 28 after his Lamborghini crashed in northern Spain. The accident happened only two weeks after his wedding to his longtime partner, Rute Cardoso.
His younger brother, André Silva, who was also in the car, died in the same crash. André, 26, was also a footballer.
What Caused the Crash?
According to reports, the car’s tyre burst while overtaking, causing it to go off the road, crash, and catch fire.
The accident took place on the A-52 highway in Zamora province, a road frequently used by drivers traveling from northern Portugal.
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Emergency services in the Castilla and Leon region of Spain confirmed that both passengers died at the scene.
Emergency Services Responded Quickly
The emergency control centre (1-1-2) in Castilla y León received multiple calls reporting a burning car after a serious crash at Kilometer 65 of the A-52 in Cernadilla, Zamora.
Firefighters, police, and medical teams were sent immediately. The Medical Emergency Unit (UME) and local health staff confirmed the deaths of two individuals at the site.
Jota Had Just Married the Love of His Life
Diogo Jota recently married his childhood sweetheart, Rute Cardoso, who is also the mother of his three children.
He had spoken in an interview just a day before the crash, saying he felt like “the luckiest man in the world” after marrying her.
The couple had been together for many years and were photographed recently celebrating with their children at Anfield Stadium, following Liverpool’s Premier League victory.
Portuguese Football Federation Confirms the Tragedy
The news of Jota’s death was officially confirmed by Pedro Proenca, President of the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF). In a heartfelt statement, he said:
“Portuguese football is heartbroken. Diogo Jota and André Silva were not only brilliant players but also incredible human beings.”
He added that Jota was admired and loved by both teammates and opponents, and that his positive energy made him a role model in the football community.
Clubs and Country in Mourning
Jota began his football career at FC Penafiel and later played for Wolverhampton Wanderers (Wolves) before moving to Liverpool, where he quickly became a fan favorite.
The Portuguese Football Federation has asked UEFA to hold a minute of silence before their upcoming Women’s European Championship match against Spain, in memory of the two footballers.
A Great Loss for Football
Jota had nearly 50 caps for the Portuguese national team and was considered one of the most talented and hardworking forwards of his generation.
Pedro Proenca closed his statement with these words:
“We lost two champions. Diogo and André Silva will always be remembered. We will honour their legacy every day.”
Source: Daily Mail
