Tragedy Strikes Football World: Liverpool Forward and Brother Killed in Car Crash Days After Wedding

The football community is in mourning following heartbreaking reports that Liverpool and Portugal forward Diogo Jota has tragically died at the age of 28 after a fatal car crash in Spain. 

The devastating accident reportedly occurred on the A52 highway, near Palacios de Sanabria in Zamora, just ten days after Jota celebrated his wedding to long-time partner Rute Cardoso. 

According to local media outlet Enfoque, Jota was traveling with his brother Andre, who also died in the crash. The vehicle is believed to have veered off the road before catching fire. Emergency services in the Castilla y León region confirmed receiving distress calls regarding a vehicle engulfed in flames. 

A statement from the 112 Castilla y León emergency services said: 

“The 112 Castilla y León operations room received several calls reporting a vehicle accident at Km. 65 of the A-52… A car was reported to have been involved in an accident and the vehicle was on fire.” 

Emergency responders, including the Zamora Traffic Police, Zamora Provincial Fire Brigade, and Mombuey Medical Unit, arrived on the scene but tragically confirmed that both occupants had died. 

Born in Porto, Jota began his professional football journey with Paços de Ferreira before joining Atletico Madrid in 2016. Though he never made a senior appearance for the La Liga side, a successful loan spell at FC Porto reignited his momentum. 

Jota’s move to Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2017 proved transformative. After helping them earn promotion to the Premier League, he netted 33 goals across three seasons, drawing attention from top clubs. 

In 2020, Liverpool signed Jota in a £41 million deal, adding energy, flair, and crucial goals to Jürgen Klopp’s frontline. He quickly became a fan favorite at Anfield, known for his movement, clinical finishing, and relentless work ethic. 

Jota’s sudden death is even more painful considering his personal milestone just days ago. On June 22, 2025, he and Rute Cardoso tied the knot, celebrating the moment with their three children. His wedding photos, shared on Instagram, received an outpouring of love from teammates and fans alike. 

The caption read: 

“June 22, 2025. Yes to forever.” 

Teammates like Darwin Núñez and Natalia Becker (wife of goalkeeper Alisson) reacted with heart emojis, echoing the love and joy of the occasion. 

Tributes have already begun pouring in from across the globe, as fans, players, and clubs come to terms with the loss of a rising star, a father, a husband, and a beloved teammate. 

Liverpool FC and the Portuguese Football Federation are yet to release official statements, but fans have gathered online to express their grief and solidarity with Jota’s family. 

This is a developing story. Further updates will follow.