Liverpool FC forward and his brother remembered as beloved figures in Portuguese and international football
July 2024 ā SpainĀ ā The world of football is in mourning following the tragic loss of Portuguese footballerĀ Diogo Jota, 28, and his younger brotherĀ AndrĆ© Silva, 26, after a car accident in Spain. The incident occurred in the early hours of Thursday morning nearĀ Cernadilla, in the province ofĀ Zamora, located in northwestern Spain.
Jota, who played forĀ Liverpool FCĀ and theĀ Portuguese national team, had recently married his long-term partnerĀ Rute CardosoĀ just two weeks earlier, making the news particularly heartbreaking for fans and colleagues around the world.
What Happened: A Tragic Road Incident
According to reports from emergency services in the Castilla y León region, the accident occurred on the A-52 highway, a commonly used route for travelers between northern Portugal and northern Spain.

Initial investigations indicate that the vehicle, aĀ Lamborghini, may have experienced a mechanical failure ā possibly a tyre issue ā while overtaking. The car left the roadway and came to rest off the highway. Despite the rapid arrival of medical and rescue teams, both Diogo and AndrĆ© were pronounced deceased at the scene.
The incident was logged atĀ 12:35 a.m.Ā by the regional emergency coordination center, which dispatched medical staff from theĀ Mombuey Health Center, traffic police, and fire services. The vehicle was already severely damaged when responders arrived.
Remembering Diogo Jota

Diogo Jota began his professional football career in Portugal and gained international recognition through his performances in theĀ Premier League, especially after joining Liverpool inĀ 2020Ā fromĀ Wolverhampton Wanderers. He played a key role in Liverpoolās recent title-winning season and had become a central figure forĀ Portugalās national team, with nearlyĀ 50 international caps.
Just two weeks ago, Jota married his childhood sweetheart Rute in a ceremony held inĀ Porto, his hometown. The couple had been together since 2012 and shared three children. Jota had posted heartfelt messages about the wedding on social media just days before the accident, calling it āa day we will never forget.ā
AndrĆ© Silvaās Career and Legacy

AndrĆ© Silva, Diogoās younger brother, was also pursuing a career in football. He most recently played forĀ FC Penafiel, a professional club in Portugalās lower divisions. Like his brother, he was regarded by teammates and coaches as a dedicated professional and a positive influence in the locker room.
National and International Reactions
TheĀ Portuguese Football Federation (FPF)Ā released an official statement expressing ācomplete devastationā at the loss of two players, praising Diogo Jota not only for his talent but also for his humility and dedication to the sport.
āMuch more than an amazing player, Diogo Jota was an extraordinary person, respected by all teammates and opponents,ā saidĀ Pedro ProenƧa, President of the FPF.
UEFA confirmed that aĀ minute of silenceĀ would be held in upcoming matches in honor of the two players. Clubs across Europe ā including Liverpool FC, Wolves, and Porto ā have issued tributes, calling Jotaās death anĀ irreparable loss for football.
Tributes from Fans and Clubs

Liverpool FC released a brief statement acknowledging the deep sorrow felt by the club, players, and supporters:
āDiogo was a talented footballer and a cherished member of our team and community. We send our deepest condolences to his family, especially his wife Rute and their children.ā
Teammates from both club and country shared tributes online, describing Jota as a passionate player who brought energy, joy, and professionalism to every match. Many posted memories of shared victories and personal reflections on his dedication to both football and family.
A Loss That Transcends Football

Jotaās final appearance on social media ā a tribute to his wedding and his new life chapter with Rute and their children ā has now taken on a deeper emotional meaning. Fans from around the world have flooded the post with messages of support and condolences.
His legacy extends beyond trophies. Diogo Jota was known for his work ethic, humility, and unwavering love for the game. He leaves behind not only a grieving family and club but also a global community of fans who admired him both on and off the field.
Looking Ahead
As investigations into the cause of the accident continue, Portuguese and Spanish authorities have asked the public to respect the familyās privacy during this period of mourning.
The football community will gather in remembrance in the days to come, as clubs, players, and fans alike reflect on the impact Jota and his brother had on the sport and the people around them.
