On the early morning of July 3, 2025, Liverpool forward Diogo Jota, 28, and his younger brother André Silva, 25, tragically died in a single-car accident near Cernadilla, Zamora, Spain. Their Lamborghini reportedly suffered a tyre blowout while overtaking another vehicle, veering off the road and erupting in flames—both men were pronounced dead at the scene.
Journey Home and Medical Precautions
Following recent lung surgery, Jota had been advised to avoid flying, choosing instead to drive from Portugal to Spain and planned to take a ferry back to Liverpool. Tragically, during that return journey, the car lost control leading to the fatal crash.
Mourning in Gondomar and Portugal
Their bodies were transported from Spain to Gondomar, Portugal, where a private wake was attended by their family—Jota’s newlywed wife Rute Cardoso among them—and even Prime Minister Luís Montenegro. A public wake opening at 4 PM followed by a funeral service at 10 AM on Saturday is scheduled at a local chapel
Global Outpouring of Grief
The football world has been plunged into sorrow. At Liverpool’s Anfield, fans left flowers, scarves, and heartfelt notes, with Mohamed Salah sharing an emotional post: “…extremely difficult to accept that Diogo won’t be there when we go back”. Clubs worldwide—including PSG, Bayern Munich, Chelsea, and Real Madrid—observed moments of silence during training for the Club World Cup. Earlier this week, before the Spain–Portugal Women’s Euro match in Bern, a touching minute’s silence honoured both brothers.
Manager Speaks: Arne Slot’s Tribute
Liverpool manager Arne Slot described the news as a “total shock,” stressing Jota was more than just a player—a beloved teammate and cherished friend. He assured the family “we will never walk alone,” using Liverpool’s famous anthem. In other statements, Slot labeled the loss “unimaginable” and praised Jota’s humanity and dedication. In response, Liverpool’s pre-season training was postponed, with plans now set to resume the following Monday instead of today.
Tributes from Past and Present
Former manager Jürgen Klopp expressed heartbreak, honoring Jota’s qualities both on and off the pitch. Klopp called him a standout player, friend, husband, and father. During Klopp’s tenure, Jota made 145 appearances, netting 56 goals, and lifted trophies including the FA Cup and EFL Cup. FIFA, UEFA, the Portuguese Football Federation, and numerous clubs also expressed solidarity, with flags flown at half-mast, and official moments of silence continuing at international fixtures.
Remembering a Local Hero
In Gondomar, a community of around 160,000, heartfelt tributes are appearing at the Diogo Jota Academy, which he established in 2022 in his hometown. Flames, scarves, and academy shirts symbolize the loss of a local lion and inspiration beneath the academy’s motto: “It’s not important where we come from, but where we are going”.
Career Highlights & Legacy
- Joined Liverpool in 2020 for approximately £41 million
- Contributed with 65 goals in 182 appearances over five seasons
- Integral to Liverpool’s 2024–25 Premier League title and domestic cup successes
- Internationally, part of Portugal squads at Euro 2020, 2024, and Nations League victories in 2019 and 2025
Final Reflections
Diogo Jota’s sudden death, coupled with his brother André’s, has left a profound void in both the local community and global football. As Liverpool and the world reflect on his vibrant career and generous spirit, his memory endures—etched in memorials, academies, and hearts worldwide. His family, team, and fans find solace in unity, pledging to honor his legacy by remembering who he was—teammate, trailblazer, and beloved son of Gondomar.
