Diogo Jota died in car crash after doctors told him not to fly back to UK

Diogo Jota’s Lamborghini burst into flames after the car left the road - CNN

Diogo Jota, the Liverpool FC forward, died in a car crash after doctors reportedly told him to drive 10 hours to a Spanish ferry rather than fly to the UK.

Jota was killed with his brother Andre Silva as fire engulfed his £180,000 Lamborghini after if suffered a tyre blowout while overtaking in the Spanish province of Zamora. The 28-year-old father-of-three had married his childhood sweetheart Rute Cardoso just 11 days earlier.

Telegraph Sport understands Jota was 190 miles into a trip from Porto to Santander because of medical advice to avoid taking a plane back to pre-season training.

Jota played 27 minutes of his country’s 2-1 win over Czech Republic last month but is said to have then undergone minor, lung-related surgery. He had suffered a rib injury while playing against Chelsea in October last season, which forced him to miss almost two months of Liverpool’s successful Premier League title charge.

It is unclear where he was given advice to avoid flying. One claimed Jota had also travelled out of the UK to his native Porto via the ferry from Plymouth to Santander.

Diogo Jota, 28, was in the prime of his career - Getty Images/Dave Howarth

On Thursday the football world was reeling by the “tragic loss” of a renowned talent at the peak of his playing career. A Liverpool statement said the club was “devastated” and that it was an “unimaginable loss”.

Liverpool manager Arne Slot spoke very movingly, saying: “What can anyone say at a time like this when the shock and pain is so incredibly raw? I wish I had the words but I do not.

“All I have are feelings that I know so many people will share about a person and player we loved dearly and a family we care so much about.

“My first thoughts are not those of a football manager. They are of a father, a son, a brother and an uncle and they belong to the family of Diogo and Andre Silva who have experienced such an unimaginable loss. My message to them is very clear – you will never walk alone.

“The last time we spoke, I congratulated Diogo on winning the Nations League and wished him luck for his forthcoming wedding. In many ways, it was a dream summer for Diogo and his family, which makes it all the more heartbreaking that it should end like this.

“When the time is right, we will celebrate Diogo Jota, we will remember his goals and we will sing his song. For the time being, we will remember him as a unique human being and mourn his loss.”

The Prince of Wales, patron of the Football Association, also paid tribute, saying he was “deeply saddened”. Cristiano Ronaldo, the Portugal national team’s captain, said Jota’s death “doesn’t make sense”.

Jota scored 65 goals in 182 games for Liverpool, with whom he won a Premier League title, the League Cup and the FA Cup, having joined from Wolverhampton Wanderers in September 2020. He made 49 appearances for Portugal, scoring 14 goals, and was part of the side who won the Nations League last month.

Jota and his 26-year-old brother were found dead in the wreckage on the A-52 in Palacios de Sanabria shortly after midnight. Witnesses who called 112 [the local emergency number] said the car was engulfed in flames and also caused a blaze in nearby vegetation.

The crash site where Diogo Jota and Andre Silva lost their lives - Getty Images/Octavio Passos

Sources from the government sub-delegation in Zamora immediately confirmed “a possible speeding incident” was being looked at. Other insiders told The Telegraph that Jota’s family had flown back to the UK separately. The car involved is believed to be a green Lamborghini Huracan Evo Spyder, which has a top speed of 200mph and 0-60mph time of 3.1 seconds. Police have yet to establish who was driving.

Jota, who was due to return to Liverpool’s pre-season training next week, had married his long-term partner two weeks ago in a Catholic service packed with family and friends in Porto.

The couple had been an item for more than a decade and had two sons and most recently a daughter born in November. He shared many family photographs on his Instagram account, while his wife has posted images of their holidays in Dubai and Lapland.

It is most likely Jota and his brother, who also played football at lower levels, were intending to board a Brittany Ferries service from Santander to Plymouth, which left at 4pm on Thursday, arriving in Devon at 11.15am on Friday.

Jota had married less than two weeks ago

CNN Portugal’s sports editor Rui Loura had been first to report that Jota had been advised against flying. “The surgery he had was lung surgery and he had been advised against flying following this,” Loura said. “He was on his way to the northern Spanish port city of Santander to cross by ferry and reach the UK that way and carry on with the car once he reached Britain.” Others suggested he had previously avoided flying because of “pulmonary discomfort”.

Amid an outpouring of grief in Liverpool, fans started leaving tributes outside Anfield on Thursday – with flowers being laid with messages including “Thanks for everything, Diogo”.

Professor John Ashton, the former North-West public health director who became a key Hillsborough whistleblower, described the profound effect Jota’s death will have on the club. He told The Telegraph: “For Liverpool FC and supporters, it is potentially triggering of the emotions we have when death visits the club and the memories that are immediately relived about Hillsborough. We share the family’s grief and if it’s any comfort for the family to know: the entire community of LFC will be thinking of them and will be there as they go through this grieving. They will never walk alone.”

Fans flocked to Anfield in their droves to lay flowers and pay tribute to the Liverpool forward - Shutterstock /Adam Vaughan

Sir Kenny Dalglish, the former Liverpool manager in charge when 97 fans died in 1989, shared Prof Ashton’s sentiments. “Football is not important at this sad time. You feel helpless, knowing there’s so little we can do to ease the pain for his wife of just two weeks, his three beautiful children. Thinking and praying for all their loved ones after the devastating loss of both Diogo and Andre.”

Another former Liverpool manager, Jurgen Klopp, said on Instagram he was “heartbroken”. His statement said: “This is a moment where I struggle! There must be a bigger purpose! But I can’t see it! I’m heartbroken to hear about the passing of Diogo and his brother Andre.” Prince Williams added: “Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and all who knew him.”

Andy Robertson, his Liverpool team-mate, said: “The ones I’m thinking about most right now are the family. Their loss is too much to bear. I’m so sorry that they have lost two such precious souls – Diogo and Andre.

“I could talk about him as a player for hours, but none of that feels like it matters right now. It’s the man. The person. He was such a good guy. The best. So genuine. Just normal and real. Full of love for the people he cared about. Full of fun.

“The last time I saw him was the happiest day of his life – his wedding day. I want to remember his never-ceasing smile from that magical day. How much he was bursting with love for his wife and family.”

Real Madrid player Trent Alexander-Arnold paid an emotional tribute to his former Liverpool team-mate: “It’s so difficult to find the right words when your head and heart are struggling to accept that someone you care so much about has gone.”

“Diogo, your family was your world. They were everything. For Rute, his children, and his parents, all of our hearts are broken. And for Andre as well. Brothers and best friends.

“When it’s less painful, I want to remember Diogo with a big smile. So many laughs and happy moments. He was such a great team-mate and a true friend. Forever number 20. Rest in peace, Diogo.”

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk shared a touching tribute. Posting on Instagram, the Dutchman said: “Man, I can’t believe it, I don’t wanna believe it.

“Absolutely devastated and in total disbelief. What a human being, what a player, but most importantly what an unbelievable family man.

“You meant so much to all of us and you always will! For your family to lose two sons, a husband and a father is just unimaginable.

“So cruel and unfair. My heart is breaking for all of your beautiful family, for Rute and for your kids. I promise you that in these difficult times and beyond we will always be there for your family. A champion forever, number 20 forever.

“It’s been a privilege to have stood by your side on the pitch, and to have been your friend off it. We will miss you beyond words and never forget you.

“Your legacy will live on, we will make sure of it! Rest in perfect peace Diogo & Andre.”

Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy told the Commons the whole House “is heartbroken by this news”, while Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said Jota’s death was “devastating news” and “there are millions of Liverpool fans, but also football fans, and non-fans, who will also be shocked by this”.

Steve Rotheram, the Metro Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, said he was “heartbroken” and it was a “huge loss to our city and the world of football”.

Zamora, close to the Portuguese border, is about halfway between Porto and the port of Santander by road. Spain’s Civil Guard said “everything points to a tyre blowout while overtaking”.

The identities of the bodies will not be fully verified until after forensic tests.

Andre Silva most recently played for Penafiel in Portugal’s second division. He previously played for the youth teams of FC Porto, where his brother spent a season on loan.

07:09 PM BST

Hughes and Edwards: ‘We feel utterly bereft’

Liverpool’s sporting directors Michael Edwards and Richard Hughes have left a statement on the club’s website saying “we are consumed by shock and sorrow”:

‘There is nothing that we can say in this moment to ease the pain of such a devastating tragedy. We all feel utterly bereft right now.

In such heartbreaking circumstances, it is our responsibility to acknowledge the collective grief we are experiencing, to pay tribute to our Diogo, and to offer unwavering support to his family who remain our absolute priority at this time.

Diogo’s wife, Rute, their three beautiful children, his parents and wider family are facing an unimaginable loss. This tragic accident has taken not only Diogo, but also his brother, Andre Silva. We mourn them both equally. We must respect the family’s privacy and give them the space to grieve in whichever way they need.

Of course, we – his Liverpool family – are also struggling to come to terms with what has happened. As his teammates, friends and colleagues, we are consumed by shock and sorrow. We know our supporters, his national team, former clubs and teammates and the wider football community share in this grief. This is a tragedy that transcends Liverpool Football Club.

In the coming days, we as a club will look to honour our beloved number 20 with the respect and affection he so richly deserves. We will strive to make these tributes meaningful and inclusive of our supporters, to whom Diogo meant so much.

For now, we express a love that is filled with deep sorrow and pain. We have lost someone truly irreplaceable.

Rest in peace, Diogo.

YNWA’

07:03 PM BST

Pogba posts

Paul Pogba has sent his condolences - Instagram/paulpogba

06:49 PM BST

Statement from Fenway Sport Group

The following statement has been released by Billy Hogan, John W Henry, Tom Werner, Mike Gordon:

‘On behalf of the leadership teams at Liverpool Football Club and Fenway Sports Group, we offer our sincere and heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of our number 20, Diogo Jota, and his brother Andre Silva.

This tragic situation and the reality of it is truly shocking, devastating and has left us numb with grief. We therefore cannot imagine how the immediate and wider family of these remarkable brothers must be feeling. Our thoughts, prayers and support are with them all.

We all know what Diogo could do on the field of play and the vital role he played in our successes since he joined this club in 2020. How he quickly became a firm fan favourite, and his song reverberated around Anfield and in stadiums across the world. So many special moments, so many special memories.

But beyond the player that we all knew was a wonderfully humble human being, he was sincere, intelligent, funny, tough and created connections with people everywhere he went. He had a zest for life that was utterly contagious.

Diogo was a loving father, son, husband and brother, and we, and everyone who knew him, will miss him deeply as we all try to process the enormity of today.

Rest in peace, Diogo and Andre. You Will Never Walk Alone.

Billy, John, Tom, Mike.’

06:40 PM BST

Slot: ‘The pain is so raw’

Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has released a statement on the Liverpool website saying “the shock and the pain is so incredibly raw”. It reads as follows:

‘What to say? What can anyone say at a time like this when the shock and the pain is so incredibly raw? I wish I had the words but I know I do not.

All I have are feelings that I know so many people will share about a person and a player we loved dearly and a family we care so much about.

My first thoughts are not those of a football manager. They are of a father, a son, a brother and an uncle and they belong to the family of Diogo and Andre Silva who have experienced such an unimaginable loss.

My message to them is very clear – you will never walk alone. The players, the staff, the supporters of Liverpool Football Club are all with you and from what I have seen today, the same can be said of the wider family of football.

This is not solely a response to tragedy. It is also a reaction to the goodness of the people involved and the respect that so many have for the boys as individuals and for the family as a whole.

For us as a club, the sense of shock is absolute. Diogo was not just our player. He was a loved one to all of us. He was a team-mate, a colleague, a workmate and in all of those roles he was very special.

I could say so much about what he brought to our team but the truth is everyone who watched Diogo play could see it. Hard work, desire, commitment, great quality, goals. The essence of what a Liverpool player should be.

There were also the parts that not everyone got to see. The person who never sought popularity but found it anyway. Not a friend to two people, a friend to everyone. Someone who made others feel good about themselves just by being with them. A person who cared deeply for his family.

Arne Slot has referred to an ‘unimaginable loss’ - Reuters/Lee Smith

The last time we spoke, I congratulated Diogo on winning the Nations League and wished him luck for his forthcoming wedding. In many ways, it was a dream summer for Diogo and his family, which makes it all the more heartbreaking that it should end like this.

When I first came to the club, one of the first songs I got to know was the one that our fans sing for Diogo. I had not worked with him previously but I knew straight away that if the Liverpool supporters, who have seen so many great players over the years, had such a unique chant for Diogo, he must have special qualities.

That we have lost those qualities in such terrible circumstances is something we have not yet come to terms with. For this reason, we need everyone at the club to stand together and to be there for one another. We owe this to Diogo, to Andre Silva, to their wider family and to ourselves.

My condolences go to Diogo’s wife, Rute, their three beautiful children and to the parents of Diogo and Andre Silva.

When the time is right, we will celebrate Diogo Jota, we will remember his goals and we will sing his song. For the time being, we will remember him as a unique human being and mourn his loss. He will never be forgotten.

His name is Diogo.’

05:55 PM BST

Bruno Fernandes posts

Manchester United and Portugal captain Bruno Fernandes has left a message for his international team-mate.

Bruno Fernandes pays tribute to his friend - Instagram/brunofernandes8

Friend, colleague and companion of a thousand battles ❤️

It’s hard to understand how can someone leave so soon.

May you and your brother find the peace you need to watch over your loved ones who lost you too soon and suddenly.

My condolences to all your family 🕊️

04:50 PM BST

PSG pay tribute

04:38 PM BST

Bayern do similar at training

04:32 PM BST

Chelsea pay tribute

04:14 PM BST

Real Madrid mark Jota’s passing

03:44 PM BST

Messi posts on Instagram

A messi tribute to Diogo Jota, with a picture of the player and QEPD written over it

QEPD translates as “Que en paz descanse” and essentially means “rest in peace” in Spanish. 

03:26 PM BST

More from Jota’s former team Wolves

Matt Wild, Wolves’ director of football operations & administration said: “We are all completely shocked. It’s such devastating news, not only for the passing of Diogo, which is just tragic enough, but to lose his brother as well.

“The impact he had at Wolves was huge. He was only here for three years, but what an important three years. To be part of that Championship-winning squad that got us to the Premier League, then get us into Europe the following year, to being part of the European journey that we had.

“There are so many great times that all the people here – the fans, the players and the staff – have all experienced together and he was very much part of that. We’ll all be looking back on those memories today, the part he played in it and our time with him.

“Diogo embodied our values at the club. He was so humble, so kind, so professional, but yet determined and hungry. Everyone’s witnessed his progression throughout his career, from such a young age, to go to Liverpool at the age of 23 and go on to great success there, he’s won lots of trophies and it couldn’t have happened to a nicer guy.”

02:54 PM BST

Harvey Elliott pays tribute

02:38 PM BST

Some of the messages left for Jota at Anfield

Flowers and floral tributes are laid at Anfield Stadium, home of Liverpool, in memory of Diogo Jota on 3 July 2025. Liverpool football player Diogo Jota has died in a car crash, aged 28

Memorial card is seen at Anfield Stadium, home of Liverpool, in memory of Diogo Jota on 3 July 2025. Liverpool football player Diogo Jota has died in a car crash, aged 28.

Flowers and floral tributes are laid at Anfield Stadium, home of Liverpool, in memory of Diogo Jota on 3 July 2025. Liverpool football player Diogo Jota has died in a car crash, aged 28.

02:31 PM BST

Dalglish: ‘Football is not important at this sad time’

Sir Kenny Dalglish, arguably Liverpool’s greatest ever player, has spoken of the devastating loss of Jota and his brother Andre.

02:16 PM BST

More pictures from outside Anfield

Liverpool fan leaves a tribute at Anfield Stadium, home of Liverpool, in memory of Diogo Jota

Tributes at Anfield Stadium, home of Liverpool, in memory of Diogo Jota who has died at the age of 28. The Portugal forward died along with his younger brother Andre Silva in the accident in Zamora on Thursday morning

People pay tribute to Liverpool's Portuguese soccer player Diogo Jota, who died in a car crash near Zamora, Spain, outside Anfield Stadium in Liverpool, Britain

Tributes in memory of Liverpool player Diogo Jota at Anfield Stadium, home of Liverpool FC in Liverpool, Thursday, July 3, 2025

Tributes at Anfield Stadium, home of Liverpool, in memory of Diogo Jota who has died at the age of 28. Picture date: Thursday July 3, 2025

People arrive to leave tributes in memory of Liverpool player Diogo Jota at Anfield Stadium, home of FC Liverpool in Liverpool, Thursday, July 3, 2025

01:47 PM BST

The Prince and Princess of Wales pay tribute

The Prince of Wales has expressed his deep sadness at the death of Liverpool footballer Diogo Jota, sending his condolences to all who knew him.

Heir to the throne William, a passionate football fan and patron of the Football Association (FA), wrote a personal message on social media in tribute to the Portuguese international.

01:40 PM BST

More tributes flooding in

• Former Liverpool captain Steve Gerrard: “RIP Diogo. Condolences to his family and friends during this incredibly sad time.”
• FC Porto: “FC Porto is in mourning. It is with shock and deep regret that we send our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva, who was also our athlete in the youth ranks. Rest in peace.”
• Fifa president Gianni Infantino: “I am deeply saddened to hear of the tragic passing of Diogo Jota and his brother André Silva. Aged 28, Diogo has enjoyed a fantastic career to date and had many great years ahead of him, while his brother André was thriving at FC Penafiel - they will both be so sorely missed by all those who knew them and by the worldwide football community. On behalf of FIFA and the wider football family, my thoughts are with their family and friends, as well as everyone at Liverpool FC, FC Penafiel and the Portuguese Football Federation. May they rest in peace.”
• Uefa president Aleksander Ceferin: “Just three weeks ago, I had the honour of presenting Diogo Jota with a medal after the Nations League final, a moment of joy, pride, and celebration that will now forever be burned in memory with sorrow. His passion, energy and spirit on the field inspired everyone around him. It is devastating to think that a life so full of joy and potential has been taken far too soon. Rest in peace, dear Diogo. You will not be forgotten.”
• Portugal midfielder Ruben Neves: “They say that we only lose people when we forget them. I will never forget you.”
• 22-time grand slam tournament champion Rafael Nadal: “What sad and painful news. All my love, affection and support go out to his wife, children, family and friends at this difficult time. Rest in peace, Diogo Jota and Andre Silva.”
• Fulham striker and Jota’s team-mate at Wolves, Raul Jimenez: “It’s hard to receive this kind of news, and I still can’t believe it. An excellent colleague, friend, and above all, a great father. Thanks for everything, my friend. We’ll always remember you.”

01:37 PM BST

‘A possible speeding incident’

The crash which killed Diogo Jota and his brother is being investigated as “a possible speeding incident”, a source from the Government Sub-delegation in Zamora confirmed to the PA news agency.

01:32 PM BST

Jota ‘will never walk alone’

Professor John Ashton, the former north-west public health director who became a key Hillsborough witness, described the profound effect Jota’s death will have on Liverpool.

He told the Telegraph: “It’s devastating to Diogo Jota’s family and his children and everybody connected to him – our hearts go out to them all.

“For Liverpool FC and supporters, it is potentially triggering of the emotions we have when death visits the club and the memories that are immediately relived about Hillsborough. We share the family’s grief and if it’s any comfort for the family to know: the entire community of LFC will be thinking of them and will be there as they go through this grieving. They will never walk alone.”

Prof Ashton, his wife and family had only this week attended the inquest into the death of his experienced skydiving instructor son Dylan who was killed while performing a base jump in Italy. “Personally, it also is very hard this week when we’ve been through our personal trauma,” he said at news of Jota’s death. “It makes it so immediate.”

The inquest, held at Cockermouth Coroner’s Court, heard that Dylan had performed well over 1,000 such jumps in his life and was known as being “meticulous in his preparation”.

01:30 PM BST

Updates from Liverpool

The Liverpool FC training centre was closed today as a mark of respect for Diogo Jota.

There will also be a Book of Condolence for people to sign at the Anfield Road end of the ground from 5pm today.

01:28 PM BST

Map showing location of crash

01:24 PM BST

Jurgen Klopp: ‘A great friend, loving husband and father’

“This is a moment where I struggle! There must be a bigger purpose, but I can’t see it,” former Liverpool manager Klopp wrote on Instagram.

“I’m heartbroken to hear about the passing of Diogo and his brother Andre. Diogo was not only a fantastic player, but also a great friend, a loving and caring husband and father.

“We will miss you so much. All my prayers, thoughts and power to Rute, the kids, the family, the friends and everyone who loved them.”

Jota made 145 appearances for Liverpool under Klopp, scoring 56 goals.

01:21 PM BST

Wimbledon reacts to tragedy

Wimbledon organisers have said players will be allowed to pay tribute to Diogo Jota with black armbands on court. 

Portuguese tennis player Francisco Cabral said he planned to do so in the next round after his victory in the men’s doubles on Thursday. 

Speaking court-side after beating Jamie Murray, he said: “I have seen the very sad news. 

“The guy is a big name, not just in Portugal but in the world. He was a great human being with a nice family and three kids. My best wishes to them all. For his family it is very tough to recover from that.”

Officials said they would support Cabral and any other players who wish to pay their respects to the Portuguese star in his next match. 

“I couldn’t get one in time today, but I want to in the next one,” he added.

01:15 PM BST

Jamie Carragher on Jota’s death

For Diogo Jota’s life to be cut short is a tragedy beyond comprehension.

Like everyone who had the pleasure to watch him, or was fortunate enough to meet him, it is difficult to find the right words to express how devastating his death is.

The sporting world will mourn how an athlete at the peak of his career, who should have been savouring the greatest professional and personal moments of his life, has been lost in such unimaginable circumstances.

01:10 PM BST

Re-live Jota’s finest moments

01:07 PM BST

Pictured: Crash site

More pictures of the crash site on the A-52 in Palacios de Sanabria near the city of Zamora, Spain, where Diogo Jota and his brother Andre died have emerged.

The location on the A-52 in Palacios de Sanabria near the city of Zamora, Spain, where Liverpool footballer Diogo Jota and his brother, Andre Silva, died following a car crash at 12:40am

The site of the car accident in which Liverpool player Diogo Jota and his brother died in the north-western city of Zamora, Spain, Thursday, July 3, 2025

12:58 PM BST

Darwin Nunez: ‘There are no words of comfort’

Uruguayan striker Darwin Nunez had been a team-mate of Diogo Jota’s since joining Liverpool in 2022.

On Instagram, Nunez said: “There are no words of comfort for so much pain. I will always remember you with your smile, as a good companion on and off the field. I send all my strength to his family, from where he is I’m sure he will always be with you, especially his wife and three children.

“May Diogo and Andre rest in peace.”

Liverpool's Diogo Jota, left, celebrates with Liverpool's Darwin Nunez after scoring his side's second goal during the English Premier League soccer match between Liverpool and Fulham, at Anfield stadium in Liverpool, England, Saturday, Dec. 14, 2024

12:54 PM BST

What we know so far...

Liverpool and Portugal star Diogo Jota and his brother have been killed in a car crash in Spain.

• Jota was in a Lamborghini on a road in northwestern Spain at 12.30am local time when the car veered off the road
• Spanish authorities who attended the scene said the car crashed after a tyre blowout led to a loss of control while trying to overtake another vehicle
• Jota died just 11 days after he married his childhood sweetheart Rute Cardoso

12:45 PM BST

Watch: Flag raised at half mast at Anfield

12:34 PM BST

Deputy Prime Minister visits floral tribute

Speaking to Sky News, Angela Rayner said: “I think the whole world is really devastated and shocked by such a tragic end to someone who is well loved here in Liverpool. I think the whole city is here to support his wife, his children and family.

“It’s heartbreaking, absolutely heartbreaking. It shows how events change really quickly. I’m absolutely devastated for his wife, his children and family. I can’t imagine what they are going through. My son is 28 and it is really shocking.

“His life and career had only just started. He had done an incredible job here for Liverpool Football Club, and was one of their greatest strikers. He’d just been married and had children, and was looking forward to all the great things he was going to do here and in his life, and it is just devastating and heartbreaking for the people who have woke up to the news this morning. 

“I’ve been here and over at Everton today, and seeing the outpouring over the city today is incredible and our thoughts are primarily with Diogo, his family and his children.”

Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner and Steve Rotheram, Metro Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, visit a floral tribute near Anfield - PA/Peter Byrne

Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner and Steve Rotheram, Metro Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, leave a floral tribute in memory of Diogo Jota

Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner and Steve Rotheram, Metro Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, leave a floral tribute in memory of Diogo Jota

12:17 PM BST

Jota death evokes Reyes memories

The tragedy will evoke memories of the death of former Arsenal footballer José Antonio Reyes, who also died in a high-speed car crash in Spain in June 2019.

Reyes, who also played for both Real and Atlético Madrid, died with his cousin Jonathan when he lost control of his Mercedes Brabus on the A-376 highway between Seville and his hometown of Utrera.

12:14 PM BST

Watch: Jota’s message to Liverpool fan

12:05 PM BST

Watch: the last goal Jota scored for Liverpool

12:02 PM BST

Emotional scenes at Anfield

More and more Liverpool fans are arriving at Anfield to pay tribute, with the emotion of today’s news palpable.

The Liverpool flag flies at half-mast at Anfield - PA/Peter Byrne

Fans have appeared overcome with emotion - PA/Peter Byrne

Tributes at Anfield Stadium, home of Liverpool, in memory of Diogo Jota who has died at the age of 28

11:48 AM BST

Pictured: A relationship of childhood sweethearts

11:41 AM BST

Basketball star lends voice to tributes

LeBron James, considered one of the greatest basketball players of all time, is a part-owner of Fenway Sports Group – the holding company which owns Liverpool. 

11:36 AM BST

‘Irreparable losses for Portuguese Football’

The Portuguese Football Federation has issued a lengthy statement paying tribute to Jota, who only last month was part of the squad that lifted the Nations League trophy in Munich.

“The Portuguese Football Federation and all of Portuguese football are completely devastated by the deaths of Diogo Jota and his brother André Silva, this morning, in Spain,” the statement read.

“Much more than an outstanding player, with nearly 50 caps for the National A Team, Diogo Jota was an extraordinary person, respected by all colleagues and opponents, someone with a contagious joy and a reference in his own community.

“The Portuguese Football Federation expresses its deepest condolences to the family and friends of Diogo and André Silva, as well as to Liverpool FC and FC Penafiel, the clubs where the players respectively played.

“The Portuguese Football Federation has already requested UEFA to hold a minute of silence, this Thursday, before our National Team’s match against Spain in the Women’s European Championship.

“We have lost two champions. The passing of Diogo and André Silva represents irreparable losses for Portuguese Football, and we will do everything to honour their legacy.”

Diogo Jota of Portugal poses for a photograph with the UEFA Nations League trophy after his team's victory in the UEFA Nations League 2025 final match between Portugal and Spain at Munich Football Arena on June 08, 2025 in Munich, Germany.

11:30 AM BST

Statement from Prime Minister

Speaking at a press conference in east London, Keir Starmer said: “This is devastating news. I’m sure I speak for everyone when I say that our first thoughts are with his friends and family. 

“It is important we bear in mind just how difficult a period this will be for [his friends and family].”

11:25 AM BST

Premier League clubs pay tribute

• Arsenal – The thoughts of everyone at Arsenal are with Diogo’s family, friends and all associated with Liverpool Football Club. Rest in peace, Diogo.
• Aston Villa – Everyone at Aston Villa Football Club would like to express their deepest condolences to the family, friends and loved ones of Diogo Jota and everyone at Liverpool Football Club at this tragic time
• Bournemouth – Such sad news. Everyone at AFC Bournemouth sends their heartfelt condolences to Diogo’s family, friends and all of your staff.
• Brentford – We send our deepest condolences to Diogo’s family, friends, and all those at Liverpool, at this incredibly sad time. Rest in peace, Diogo
• Brighton – The thoughts of everyone at Brighton & Hove Albion are with the friends and family of Diogo Jota and Andre Silva following the heartbreaking news of their passing
• Burnley – The thoughts of everybody at Burnley Football Club are with the family and friends of Diogo Jota and his brother Andre, following the heartbreaking news of their passing
• Chelsea – Everyone at Chelsea FC is devastated to learn of the tragic passing of Diogo Jota and his brother, Andre. Our thoughts go out to their family, friends and all at Liverpool FC at this incredibly difficult time.
• Crystal Palace – Everyone at Crystal Palace sends its deepest sympathies to Diogo’s family, friends and everyone at Liverpool during this very sad time
• Everton – Everyone at Everton is deeply saddened by the tragic passing of Diogo Jota and his brother André Silva. Our thoughts are with their family and friends at this sad time.
• Fulham – We’re devastated by the shocking news that Diogo Jota and his brother, André Silva, have passed away. Everyone at Fulham is thinking of the many people affected by these tragic losses, including all at Liverpool
• Leeds – The thoughts of everyone at #LUFC are with Diogo Jota’s family, friends and all associated with @LFC at this devastating time
• Manchester City – Everyone at Manchester City is shocked and saddened to learn about the devastating news regarding the passing of Diogo Jota. We send our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends and everyone at Liverpool Football Club at this difficult time. Rest in peace, Diogo.
• Manchester United – Our deepest condolences are with the loved ones of Diogo Jota and his brother, Andre, and everyone connected with Liverpool FC following today’s heartbreaking news.
• Newcastle – We are deeply saddened to learn the heartbreaking news of Diogo Jota’s passing. Our heartfelt condolences are with Diogo’s young family, friends and everyone at Liverpool Football Club during this incredibly difficult time. Rest in peace, Diogo
• Nottingham Forest – Everyone at Nottingham Forest is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Diogo Jota and his brother André Silva. Our heartfelt thoughts and condolences go out to their families, loved ones, and all at Liverpool FC and FC Penafiel during this incredibly difficult time.
• Sunderland – Our thoughts are with Diogo’s family, friends, teammates, and everyone at Liverpool FC during this incredibly difficult time. Rest in peace
• Tottenham – Everyone at Tottenham Hotspur is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Diogo Jota. Our thoughts and condolences are with his family, friends and all at Liverpool Football Club at this incredibly difficult time
• West Ham – Everyone at West Ham United is greatly saddened to learn of the tragic passing of Diogo Jota and his brother, André Silva. We send our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all those connected to Liverpool Football Club at this unimaginably difficult time.
• Wolves – We are heartbroken. Diogo was adored by our fans, loved by his teammates and cherished by everyone who worked with him during his time at Wolves. The memories he created will never be forgotten. Our hearts go out to the family, friends and loved ones of Diogo and his brother, Andre. You will be truly missed, and always remembered.

11:20 AM BST

Ronaldo: ‘It doesn’t make sense’

Jota’s Portugal team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo has just released this statement on X.

“It doesn’t make sense. Just now we were together in the National Team, just now you had gotten married,” Ronaldo said. “To your family, your wife, and your children, I send my condolences and wish them all the strength in the world. I know you will always be with them. Rest in Peace, Diogo and André. We will all miss you.”

11:18 AM BST

Andre Silva with brother at Porto in 2016

Jota’s brother, André Filipe Teixeira da Silva, played professional football in Portugal’s second division for Penafiel. Jota joined Porto on loan in 2016, at which point his brother was part of the club’s youth system.

Diogo Jota (right) pictured with his bother Andre in Porto’s Estádio do Dragão in 2016

11:12 AM BST

Minute’s silence from Uefa

In statement, Uefa has announced that tributes to Jota and his brother, Andre, will be observed at the Women’s Euros.

A statement read: “A moment of silence will be observed at all of today’s and tomorrow’s Uefa Women’s Euro 2025 matches in memory of Portugal international and Liverpool FC forward Diogo Jota and his brother André Silva who tragically passed away today.”

11:09 AM BST

Fans already leaving tributes at Anfield

In what promises to be only the start of some emotional scenes in Liverpool throughout the day, fans of the club have started laying wreaths commemorating Jota outside Anfield.

Tributes at Anfield Stadium, home of Liverpool, in memory of Diogo Jota who has died at the age of 28. The Portugal forward died along with his younger brother Andre Silva in the accident in Zamora on Thursday morning. Picture date: Thursday July 3, 2025

11:04 AM BST

Pictured: Crash site

A video has emerged of the crash site showing a burnt-out vehicle near the Spain-Portugal border being attended by Civil guard officers.

Diogo Jota crash site

Diogo Jota crash site

11:01 AM BST

Former club releases statement

Jota joined Wolves on loan in 2017 from Atletico Madrid before making the move permanent the following season. He played 131 times for the club, scoring 44 goals.

10:56 AM BST

Everton and Manchester United send condolences

Everton and Manchester United, Liverpool’s biggest rivals, have sent their condolences to Diogo Jota’s family and friends.

In a statement, Everton said: “We are devastated by this tragic news. Everyone at Everton is sending their thoughts and condolences to the family and friends of Diogo and Andre Silva.”

Manchester United added: “Our deepest condolences are with the loved ones of Diogo Jota and his brother, Andre, and everyone connected with Liverpool FC following today’s heartbreaking news.”

10:54 AM BST

Uefa ‘deeply saddened’ by Jota’s death

Uefa has said it is “deeply saddened” by Diogo Jota’s death.

“On behalf of the European football community, we are deeply saddened to learn of the tragic passing of Diogo Jota, Portugal international and Liverpool FC forward, along with his brother André Silva,” a spokesman said.

“Our thoughts are with their family, friends, teammates and all those affected by this heartbreaking loss.”

10:49 AM BST

In pictures: Jota’s wedding to childhood sweetheart

10:47 AM BST

Jota’s ex-Wolves teammates pay tribute

Diogo Jota’s former Wolverhampton Wanderers teammates have paid tributes to him.

Ruben Neves, who now plays for Al Hilal in Saudi Arabia, said: “They say we only lose people when we forget them. I will never forget you!”

Ruben Neves (left) and Diogo Jota at Wolves in 2018 - Nigel French/PA

Ivan Cavaleiro said the news was “a huge shock for all of us” and Barry Douglas said he was “absolutely devastated”.

Douglas added: “Life is cruel and precious at the same time, my deepest condolences go out to his beautful [sic] kids and wife at this tragic time. Miss you my gringo.”

John Ruddy said: “Such sad news. Sending my thoughts and prayers to Diogo and Andre’s family. Was a pleasure to know you my friend. Rest in peace.”

10:42 AM BST

Pictured: Jota and family celebrate Premier League title

Diogo Jota, Rute Cardoso and their three children celebrate Liverpool’s Premier League title triumph in May

10:40 AM BST

Jota died ‘after Lamborghini tyre burst’

The footballer died when a tyre of the Lamborghini supercar he was in burst as it attempted to overtake another vehicle, Spanish authorities said.

The car then left the road and burst into flames.

“The vehicle came off the road on the left-hand side,” Spain’s Guardia Civil said in a statement.

“The investigation points to a road accident due to a tyre burst while overtaking. As a result of the accident, the car caught fire and both occupants died.”

The Zamora Provincial Council added: “A vehicle ran off the road and caught fire, which spread to the surrounding vegetation. The fire was put out by the fire brigade, which worked with health services and the Guardia Civil.”

10:28 AM BST

Liverpool FC ‘devastated’ by ‘unimaginable loss’

Liverpool FC has said the club is “devastated” by Diogo Jota’s death.

“Liverpool Football Club are devastated by the tragic passing of Diogo Jota,” a spokesman said in a statement.

“The club have been informed the 28-year-old has passed away following a road traffic accident in Spain along with his brother, Andre.

“Liverpool FC will be making no further comment at this time and request the privacy of Diogo and Andre’s family, friends, teammates and club staff is respected as they try to come to terms with an unimaginable loss. We will continue to provide them with our full support.”

10:26 AM BST

Jota married childhood sweetheart two weeks ago

The 28-year-old married his childhood sweetheart less than two weeks ago.

He first met Rute Cardoso, with whom he had three children, when they were at school together.

They married in Porto, Portugal, on June 22. At the time, she wrote in a social media post: “My dream came true.”

Jota replied: “I’m the lucky one.”

10:22 AM BST

Jota was due to report back for training

Jota was due to return to Liverpool for pre-season training next week.

He joined the club in 2020 from Wolverhampton Wanderers and made 182 appearances for the club, scoring 65 goals in all competitions.

He won the Premier League, FA Cup and League Cup with the club.

Jota had a successful Liverpool career - Phil Noble/Reuters

10:16 AM BST

Carragher: ‘I am absolutely devastated’

Jamie Carragher, the former Liverpool captain, said: “Absolutely devastated by the sad news about Diogo Jota. Thoughts are with his wife Rute and their three kids.”

10:12 AM BST

Investigation ‘suggests tyre burst’

In a statement given to The Telegraph, Spain’s Guardia Civil said: “The Guardia Civil is investigating a road accident which occurred at 12:30am this morning at kilometre 65 of the A52, at the municipal area of Cernadilla, Zamora. The vehicle came off the road on the left-hand side.

“The investigation points to a road accident due to a tyre burst while overtaking. As a result of the accident, the car caught fire and both occupants died. In the absence of the conclusion of the expert evidence, the identification of one of the deceased is Diogo Jota, a Liverpool FC player, and his brother Andre Felipe.”

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