The football world is mourning a heartbreaking loss. Liverpool forward Diogo Jota and his brother, André, were tragically killed in a devastating car accident while vacationing in Spain.
According to early reports, the crash occurred shortly after midnight between Wednesday and Thursday on the A-52 highway near Senadilla, at approximately the 65th kilometer mark. The tragic accident took place in the autonomous region of Castile and León, where emergency services were alerted by multiple distress calls describing a vehicle engulfed in flames after veering off the road.
Local media in Zamora confirmed that 28-year-old Diogo Jota and his younger brother André — a professional footballer for Portuguese club Penafiel — were both pronounced dead at the scene.
Emergency Responders Arrived Quickly, But It Was Too Late
Spain’s regional emergency coordination center quickly dispatched traffic police, firefighters, medical emergency units, and teams from the Mombuey Primary Health Care Center. Despite their rapid response, nothing could be done to save the two young men. Medical teams could only confirm that both had died from their injuries.
Spanish newspaper Marca reports that, according to eyewitnesses who called authorities, the car was already in flames by the time help arrived. The fire quickly spread from the vehicle to nearby vegetation, making rescue efforts even more difficult.
A Life Cut Short Just Weeks After His Wedding
The tragedy comes only weeks after Diogo Jota married his long-time partner, Rute Cardoso, with whom he shared three children. What was meant to be a new chapter of joy has now turned into unimaginable grief for the family.
From Paços Ferreira to Liverpool: A Stellar Career
Born in Porto, Diogo Jota began his professional journey with Paços de Ferreira before being signed by Atlético Madrid. Although he never made an appearance for the Spanish giants, he was loaned to FC Porto, where he scored 9 goals and recorded 7 assists in a standout season.
That performance caught the attention of Wolverhampton Wanderers, who brought him to England. Jota quickly became a fan favorite at Molineux, scoring 44 goals in 141 appearances.
In 2020, Liverpool acquired him for €44.7 million, and he made an immediate impact at Anfield. Wearing the iconic red jersey, Jota scored 65 goals and delivered 26 assists, playing a crucial role in helping the club win the Premier League, FA Cup, and EFL Cup.
A Tragic Loss for Football — and for His Family
This sudden and devastating accident has sent shockwaves through the football community. Fans, teammates, and clubs across Europe are mourning the loss of a player who was not only exceptionally talented but deeply admired for his dedication, humility, and passion for the game.
As tributes pour in, Diogo Jota and his brother André will be remembered not only for what they achieved on the pitch — but for the lives they touched off it.
May they rest in peace. 🕊️