Liverpool forward Diogo Jota, 28, and his brother die in flaming Lamborghini crash

Liverpool forward Diogo Jota, 28, has died in a devastating car crash in northwestern Spain, just 11 days after marrying his longtime partner. His younger brother, André Silva, 26, a fellow professional footballer, was also killed in the crash.

What happened?

According to Spanish emergency services, the accident occurred just after midnight on the A-52 motorway in Cernadilla, Zamora province. The vehicle, a Lamborghini, reportedly blew a tire, swerved off the road, and burst into flames, killing both men instantly. Local witnesses alerted the fire brigade as the blaze spread to nearby vegetation.

Also Read: Who is Diogo Jota's wife Rute Cardoso? The duo got married just 10 days before the footballer died in car crash


The vehicle was traveling at high speed, and the explosive fire made recovery difficult. A full forensic investigation is underway, with toxicology and mechanical evaluations expected in the coming days.

Jota had only recently celebrated his wedding to Rute Cardoso on June 22. The couple shared three young children, aged between seven months and four years.

Football world in shock

Jota’s death has sent shockwaves through the football community. In an emotional statement, the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) said:

“Far beyond being an exceptional player, with nearly 50 caps for the National Team, Diogo Jota was an extraordinary person, someone with a contagious joy and a reference within his own community.”

The FPF confirmed they had requested a minute’s silence ahead of Portugal’s Women’s Euro match against Spain.

A Career cut short

Jota began his career at Paços de Ferreira, later moving through Porto, Atlético Madrid, and Wolverhampton Wanderers, before signing with Liverpool in 2020 for £41 million.

In five years with the club, he made 182 appearances and scored 65 goals. He helped Liverpool secure four major trophies, including the 2024–25 Premier League title under new manager Arne Slot. He also played in Portugal's recent UEFA Nations League victory over Spain.

He last appeared in Portugal’s win just weeks ago and was expected to feature in the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

His brother, André Silva, played for Penafiel, a second-division team in Portugal.

Tributes pour in

Tributes have poured in from around the world. Former Liverpool striker Stan Collymore posted:

“There’s just a profound sense of shock, sadness, and disbelief. Devastating.”

Veteran broadcaster Gary Neville and journalist Piers Morgan also expressed heartbreak over the loss of a young father and star. Liverpool FC is preparing tributes at Anfield, including flying flags at half-mast, a book of condolences, and a video montage of Jota’s most iconic moments. A club statement is expected soon.

Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa reportedly reached out to the family and described Jota’s death as a “national loss.”

Spanish authorities confirmed to Sky Sports News that the crash occurred at Km. 65 of the A-52, and the cause is under investigation. Preliminary findings point to a tire failure at high speed.