The world of football is mourning the sudden death of Liverpool and Portugal star, Diogo Jota, who died in a car accident in Spain at the age of 28.
Just hours before the crash, Jota shared a touching post on Instagram celebrating his recent wedding to longtime partner, Rute Cardoso. In what has now become his final message, he captioned a video from their ceremony: “A day we will never forget.”
The wedding took place on June 22 in Porto, Portugal. Five days before the accident, Jota had also posted wedding photos on X (formerly Twitter), writing: “June 22, 2025. Yes, forever.”
Sadly, Jota died alongside his younger brother, André Silva, 26, who also played professional football for FC Penafiel. The brothers were reportedly in a Lamborghini that veered off the A-52 highway in Zamora, northern Spain, and caught fire after a suspected tyre burst while overtaking.
Emergency services confirmed both men died at the scene.
Pedro Proença, President of the Portuguese Football Federation, officially announced the deaths and paid tribute to both players.
“Diogo was not just a top player with nearly 50 national appearances—he was a kind, joyful soul respected by teammates and rivals,” he said. “Portuguese football is heartbroken.”
Jota had been enjoying a successful period in both his personal and professional life. He recently helped Liverpool win the Premier League title and posted photos from the celebration with his wife and three children.
In one of Cardoso’s recent Instagram posts, she wrote, “My dream came true.” Jota responded lovingly: “But I’m the lucky one.”
His sudden passing has shocked fans, teammates, and clubs around the world. Tributes continue to pour in, remembering Jota not just as a footballer, but as a devoted family man and beloved friend.
