In a heartbreaking development that has sent shockwaves through the football world, Spanish police have revealed that excessive speed was likely the cause of the tragic car crash that claimed the lives of Liverpool forward Diogo Jota and his younger brother, André Silva.
The fatal accident occurred on July 3 in Zamora, northwestern Spain, just days after Jota, 28, had celebrated his wedding to longtime partner, Rute Cardoso. The couple shared three young children together, deepening the grief surrounding this devastating loss.
According to a preliminary report by the Spanish Civil Guard, investigators found significant skid marks at the crash site, suggesting the vehicle was traveling above the road’s speed limit before losing control. The car, driven by Jota, reportedly veered off the road and burst into flames, leaving no chance of survival for either occupant.
“All the tests conducted so far indicate that the driver of the vehicle was Diogo Jota,” authorities confirmed.
Initial suspicions hinted that a tyre blowout while overtaking another vehicle may have triggered the fiery crash. However, current evidence points more convincingly toward speeding as the primary cause.
The football community has been plunged into mourning following the loss of Jota, a dynamic and passionate player whose career had been marked by hard work, brilliance, and relentless determination. His 26-year-old brother, André, also a professional footballer, perished alongside him, cutting short two promising lives in one tragic instant.
Jota’s career began at Portuguese side Paços de Ferreira before he earned a move to La Liga giants Atlético Madrid in 2016. Loan spells at FC Porto and Wolverhampton Wanderers followed, the latter proving especially fruitful. After spearheading Wolves’ promotion to the Premier League, he made a permanent switch for €14 million, dazzling fans with 44 goals in 131 appearances.
In 2020, Jota signed with Liverpool in a high-profile £41 million deal. His versatility, clinical finishing, and tireless work ethic quickly made him a fan favorite at Anfield.
On the international stage, Jota wore the Portuguese jersey with pride. He represented his nation at every level—from U19 to the senior team—making his full debut in 2019. He featured at major tournaments including the 2022 FIFA World Cup and UEFA Euros in 2020 and 2024. He also helped Portugal clinch two UEFA Nations League titles in 2019 and most recently in 2025.
The timing of the tragedy has only deepened the heartbreak. Jota had just shared joyful moments from his wedding in Porto, celebrating love and family before his life was cut tragically short.
Tributes have continued to pour in from clubs, teammates, fans, and fellow players around the world, mourning not just a gifted athlete, but a devoted husband, father, and brother.
The Portuguese Football Federation described the loss as “immeasurable,” while Liverpool FC released a statement calling Jota “a player of immense talent and a person of immense heart.”
As investigations continue, the footballing world remains united in grief, remembering Diogo Jota and André Silva not only for their skill on the pitch, but for the humanity and joy they brought to so many lives.
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