Liverpool forward Diogo Jota has tragically died in a car accident in Spain at the age of 28. His younger brother, 26-year-old Andre Silva—who played for Liga Portugal 2 side Penafiel—also lost his life in the crash.
The accident occurred at around 12:30am local time on the A-52 motorway in Cernadilla, Zamora, when their car veered off the road and caught fire following a tyre burst during an overtaking manoeuvre.
Jota had recently married his long-time partner less than two weeks ago and was a father of three.
Jota joined Liverpool in 2020 from Wolves, where he initially arrived on loan in 2017 before signing permanently. During his time at Liverpool, he played a key role in the club’s recent success, helping them secure the Premier League title last season, along with FA Cup and Carabao Cup victories in 2022.
Liverpool FC said in a statement: “Liverpool Football Club are devastated by the tragic passing of Diogo Jota. We ask that the privacy of Diogo and Andre’s family, friends, team-mates and club staff be respected as they grieve this unimaginable loss. The club will provide them with full support.”
Porto, where both brothers played during their youth careers, also expressed condolences: “Porto is in mourning. We are deeply shocked and saddened. Our sincere condolences go out to the family and friends of Diogo Jota and Andre Silva. May they rest in peace.”