By Anastasios Gordon Sekandi updated at 14:25 EAT on Thursday 03 July 2025

The global football community is in mourning following the tragic death of Diogo Jota, the Liverpool and Portugal star, who was killed in a horrific car crash in Spain — just weeks after celebrating his wedding.

The 28-year-old forward and his brother, Andre Silva, died when their car veered off the motorway near Zamora and burst into flames. The devastating accident has left fans, teammates, and football icons reeling with grief.

💔 LEGENDS LEAD TRIBUTES

Former Liverpool captains Steven Gerrard and Jamie Carragher were among the first to honor Jota’s memory.

> “RIP Diogo. Condolences to his family and friends during this incredibly sad time,” said Gerrard.

> Carragher posted: “Absolutely devastated by the sad news about Diogo Jota. Thoughts are with his wife Rute and their three children.”

🟥 LIVERPOOL STATEMENT

In an emotional club statement, Liverpool FC said:

> “Liverpool Football Club is devastated by the tragic passing of Diogo Jota. The 28-year-old passed away following a road traffic accident in Spain alongside his brother, Andre. The club will provide full support to their family and request privacy during this unimaginable loss.”

🌍 GLOBAL REACTIONS

Cristiano Ronaldo: “It doesn’t make sense. Just now we were together. My condolences to his wife and children. Rest in peace, Diogo and Andre.”

Gary Neville: “That is heartbreaking news. All my love and best wishes to his family.”

Piers Morgan: “He only got married two weeks ago. Heart-breaking.”

LeBron James, Liverpool shareholder: “My prayers go out to his loved ones. YNWA Jota.”

Declan Rice: “So, so sad. Heartbreaking. RIP to Diogo and Andre.”

Jack Grealish: “Honestly lost for words. The worst news.”

🏆 A GLORIOUS CAREER CUT SHORT

Jota, who helped Liverpool lift the Premier League title in May 2025, also played key roles at Wolves, FC Porto, and with Portugal, where he earned nearly 50 caps and was part of their Nations League-winning squad just weeks ago.

Floral tributes and scarves now line the gates of Anfield, where flags are flying at half-mast in memory of the beloved forward.

🤍 A FAMILY MAN

Jota’s wife, Rute Cardoso, and their three children are said to be “completely shattered” by the sudden loss. The couple had only recently shared joyful images from their wedding ceremony — now tragically remembered as their final days together.

🕊️ ACROSS THE SPORTING WORLD

Everton FC: “We are devastated by this tragic news.”

Wolverhampton Wanderers: “He was adored by fans and loved by teammates. We are heartbroken.”

Manchester City, Arsenal, Chelsea: All released coordinated condolences.

Portugal Prime Minister Luís Montenegro: “The nation mourns a hero who honoured the name of Portugal.”

🇵🇹 FAREWELL TO A NATIONAL TREASURE

Portuguese Football Federation President Pedro Proença described Jota as “much more than a fantastic player — an extraordinary person with contagious joy.” A minute’s silence is scheduled before today’s Women’s Euro match between Portugal and Spain.

> “We have lost two champions,” Proença said. “The loss of Diogo and Andre Silva is irreparable. We will honour their legacy every day.”

🕯️ NEVER FORGOTTEN

Former teammates, including Ruben Neves, Raul Jimenez, and Helder Costa, shared heartfelt messages, remembering Jota’s joy, humility, and brilliance. Sports personalities from darts to basketball, and from Real Madrid legend Iker Casillas to fan-favorite Chris Kamara, expressed their sorrow.

> “Sometimes life is very cruel,” said David De Gea.

“RIP Diogo Jota. What a lovely person,” added darts star Stephen Bunting.

📍 WHERE THE TRAGEDY HAPPENED

A roadside shrine is already growing at the crash site in Zamora, Spain, where fans and locals are leaving messages, flowers, and Portugal scarves.

🧠 FINAL WORD

The world has lost not just a footballer, but a father, a husband, a brother, a friend — and a man whose passion lit up every stadium he stepped into.

Rest in peace, Diogo and Andre. You will never walk alone.

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