Portuguese footballer Diogo Jota has died in a car crash in Zamora, Spain.
This is according to the Guardia Civil, who confirmed the news to the BBC.
His brother, Andre Felipe, also died in the crash, which happened at around 00:30 local time (23:30 BST).
The car, a Lamborghini, left the road due to a tyre blowout while overtaking another car. The car was set on fire, and both were confirmed to have died.
Background & Personal Details
Diogo Jota had recently married partner Rute Cardoso on June 22, 2025, about two weeks before the accident. The couple shared three young children, aged approximately 7 months, 2 years, and 4 years.
He had just returned from winning the UEFA Nations League with Portugal and was preparing to rejoin Liverpool's preseason
Due to the severity of the fire, authorities are still performing forensic work to definitively identify the bodies, though all signs point to Diogo and André Jota
Liverpool FC has not yet issued a public statement as of early reporting, but the football world is in mourning.
A Rising Star Cut Short
Jota’s death comes at a time when he appeared to be entering the prime of his career.
The Liverpool striker had recently returned from international duty, where he played a key role in Portugal’s UEFA Nations League triumph.
He was expected to join Liverpool’s pre-season training camp later this week, as the club looked to rebuild under manager Arne Slot following the departure of Jurgen Klopp.
The footballer was also riding high in his personal life. He had married Rute Cardoso on June 22, 2025, in a private ceremony attended by close friends, family, and some teammates. The couple, who had been together for several years, were raising three young children: a 4-year-old, a 2-year-old, and a 7-month-old baby.
Liverpool FC & Football World in Shock
As of the time of this report, Liverpool Football Club has yet to issue an official statement, but an outpouring of grief is already sweeping across social media from fans, fellow players, and clubs. Former teammates and rivals alike have expressed disbelief and condolences, with many highlighting Jota's work ethic, humble nature, and dedication on and off the pitch.
Jota joined Liverpool from Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2020 for a reported £41 million, quickly endearing himself to fans with his instinctive finishing, versatility, and big-match mentality. He scored 53 goals in 161 appearances for the Reds and played a vital role in their recent domestic and European campaigns.
A Family Devastated
In addition to the footballing world, the Jota family is now dealing with an unimaginable loss—two brothers gone in a single moment. Diogo’s wife, Rute, has not yet spoken publicly, but sources close to the family describe her as "utterly devastated" and being supported by relatives and the Portuguese Football Federation.
Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa and Prime Minister Luís Montenegro have both expressed condolences, calling Jota a “symbol of modern Portuguese football” and praising his contribution to the national team.
Investigations Underway
Spanish authorities have launched a full investigation into the crash, with early reports confirming that a tyre blowout at high speed likely triggered the accident. The luxury car, reportedly a Lamborghini Aventador, was severely damaged and caught fire instantly, making escape impossible for the two occupants.
Final Goodbye
Memorials and tributes are already being planned both in Liverpool and Portugal. Anfield is expected to open its gates for fans wishing to pay their respects, and the Portuguese Football Federation is coordinating with the family to organize a state-assisted funeral service in Porto, where Jota was born.
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