Football World Mourns Diogo Jota After Fatal Crash in Spain
Liverpool FC forward Diogo Jota has died in a devastating car crash alongside his younger brother Andre. The fatal incident occurred early Thursday morning on the A-52 highway near Palacios de Sanabria in northwestern Spain.
Accident Details
Spanish authorities confirmed that the crash happened around 12:30 a.m. when the Lamborghini carrying the brothers veered off the road and burst into flames. The Guardia Civil stated initial evidence points to a burst tyre during an overtaking manoeuvre as the likely cause. No other vehicles were involved.
“A vehicle left the road and everything indicates a tyre burst while overtaking,” a police spokesperson said. “The car caught fire, and sadly both occupants were killed.”
Images from the scene show scorched wreckage and scattered debris along the roadside. The accident occurred as the pair were headed toward Benavente.
A Life Cut Short
The tragedy comes just 10 days after Jota married his longtime partner, Rute Cardoso. The 28-year-old forward leaves behind a wife and three young children.
Jota, who began his career in Portugal, played for Atlético Madrid and Wolverhampton Wanderers before joining Liverpool in 2020. He scored 47 goals in 123 appearances for the club and was instrumental during their Premier League title-winning campaign. He also earned 49 caps for Portugal, netting 14 times for the national team.
His brother, Andre Jota, 25, was a player for Penafiel, a Portuguese second-division club.
Reactions from the Football World
Liverpool FC issued a heartfelt statement:
“We are devastated by the news. The club confirms Diogo and his brother Andre died in a car crash in Spain. We request privacy for the family and loved ones at this unimaginable time. The club will offer them full support.”
The Portuguese Football Federation also paid tribute:
“Beyond being a brilliant footballer, Diogo Jota was a kind, joyful, and respected man. We’ve lost two champions. Their memory will forever live on in Portuguese football.”
Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp posted a moving message:
“I’m heartbroken. Diogo wasn’t just a top player — he was a dear friend, a devoted husband, and a loving father. We will miss him dearly. My thoughts are with Rute, the children, and everyone who knew and loved them.”
National team captain Cristiano Ronaldo shared his grief:
“This doesn’t make sense. We were just together with the national team. My heart goes out to his wife, kids, and family. Rest in peace, Diogo and Andre.”
More Than Just a Footballer
Away from the pitch, Jota was known for his passion for gaming. He owned an eSports team and was an active presence on Twitch, where he streamed regularly.
Final Thoughts
The sudden passing of Diogo and Andre Jota has sent shockwaves through the football world. Known for his infectious energy and lethal finishing, Jota leaves behind a powerful legacy in both club and international football.
As tributes pour in from across the globe, fans continue to gather outside Anfield to pay their respects, laying flowers and scarves in memory of a player gone far too soon.
Source: https://news.sky.com/story/liverpool-star-diogo-jota-28-killed-in-car-crash-report-13391751
