Liverpool and Portugal forward Diogo Jota, age 28, tragically died in a car accident in northwestern Spain earlier today, July 3, 2025. The accident occurred on the A52 highway near Zamora (around Cernadilla/Palacios de Sanabria) in the early hours. Jota was traveling with his younger brother, André (26, who played for Penafiel), when the vehicle left the road and caught fire, killing both brothers instantly
This devastating news comes just two weeks after Diogo Jota married his long-term partner, Rute Cardoso, on June 22 in Porto
About Diogo Jota:
Born December 4, 1996, in Porto, Portugal.
A versatile forward/winger, he began his senior career at Paços de Ferreira (2014), moved through Atlético Madrid, FCPorto, and Wolverhampton Wanderers, before joining Liverpool in September 2020
He scored over 50 goals for Liverpool and earned 49 caps for the Portugal national team, contributing significantly to their UEFA Nations League victories in 2019 and 2025
Reaction & next steps:
Liverpool FC has described the news as “heartbreaking” and will hold a memorial tribute at Anfield ahead of their next match.
The Portugal Football Federation and teammates have expressed deep sorrow; tributes are pouring in from players worldwide.
Fans are already laying flowers and leaving messages at Anfield and in Porto.
Spanish authorities and the Guardia Civil are investigating, including reports that a tire blowout may have caused the crash
