Liverpool star Jota dies in car crash

Liverpool player Diogo Jota and his brother have died in a car accident in Spain, police said Thursday.

The Spanish civil guard confirmed to reporters that 28-year-old Jota and his brother, 25-year-old Andre Silva, were found dead after their car, a Lamborghini, went off the road due to a tire blowout near the western city of Zamora.

They said there were no other vehicles involved.

Premier League champion Jota married Rute Cardoso just two weeks ago, writing in a social media post: "Yes to forever." A Portugal international, Jota helped his team win the Nations League last month.

Silva played with Portuguese club Penafiel in the lower divisions.

"All of Portuguese football are completely devastated," read a statement from the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF). "Much more than an amazing player, with almost 50 international appearances, Diogo Jota was an extraordinary person, respected by all teammates and opponents," the statement continued.

"We have lost two champions. The passing of Diogo and Andre Silva represents irreparable losses for Portuguese football, and we will do everything to honor their legacy daily."

The FPF has reportedly requested that UEFA observe a minute's silence before Portugal's women face Spain in their Euro 2025 clash on Thursday.

"The news of the death of Diogo Jota, an athlete who greatly honored Portugal's name, and his brother, is unexpected and tragic. I extend my deepest condolences to their family. It is a sad day for football and for national and international sports," read a statement from Portugal's Prime Minister, Luis Montenegro.

Jota joined Liverpool from Wolves in 2020, and won three major trophies with the Merseyside club — including the Premier League title last season

As of press time, the club had yet to make a statement.

A storied career

Jota began his career in his native Portugal, coming through the Pacos de Ferreira academy before joining Atletico Madrid in 2016.

But he never made an appearance for the La Liga side, instead going on loan to Porto — the city where he was born.

"FC Porto is in mourning. It is with shock and deep sorrow that we send our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Diogo and his brother Andre Silva, who was also our athlete in the youth ranks. Rest in peace," read a statement from his hometown club.

From there, he moved to Wolves, where he spent two years under fellow Portuguese Nuno Espirito Santo, before being signed by Liverpool in September 2020.

As well as last season's Premier League title, he also won FA Cup and Carabao Cup titles with the club.

He made his Portugal debut in November 2019, going on to feature at Euro 2022 and Euro 2024, but missed the 2022 World Cup through injury.

He won the Nations League twice with his country, including the most recent edition in May.

Agencies