Liverpool and Portugal forward Diogo Jota, 28, tragically died in a car crash near Zamora, Spain, in the early hours of July 3, 2025, along with his younger brother, André.
The accident occurred on the A-52 highway at kilometre 65, near the municipality of Palacios de Sanabria in the province of Zamora, when their car veered off the road and burst into flames. Emergency crews confirmed both died at the scene with no other vehicles involved.
Jota, born in 1996, was a key figure for both Liverpool FC and the Portuguese national team. The news of his sudden passing has sent shockwaves through the footballing world and beyond.
The Spanish sports newspaper MARCA reported the incident on Thursday, confirming that Jota died at the scene of the accident.
“Liverpool footballer Diogo Jota dies in a traffic accident in the province of Zamora,” the outlet wrote in a brief statement, mourning the loss of the talented player.
Jota was widely regarded for his tenacity, goal-scoring instinct, and versatility on the pitch.
Jota had recently married long-time partner Rute Cardoso on June 22, 2025, and was father to three young children. A versatile and clinical forward, he scored 65 goals in 182 appearances for Liverpool and helped win the Premier League, FA Cup, and League Cup. Internationally, he earned almost 50 caps and twice won the UEFA Nations League with Portugal
Further details surrounding the crash and funeral arrangements are yet to be announced as of press time.