2025, JULY 03 – Liverpool FC forward Diogo Jota has tragically passed away at the age of 28 following a car accident in northern Spain on Thursday. His brother, André Silva, also lost his life in the incident.
The accident occurred in the province of Zamora, close to the Portuguese border, as Jota and his brother were travelling by car to the northern Spanish port city of Santander. The pair had planned to take the ferry back to England, where Jota was due to report for pre-season training with Liverpool next week.
Reports from CNN Portugal and BBC Sport have confirmed that Jota had recently undergone minor lung surgery and had been advised against flying. As a result, he opted to drive from Porto, Portugal, to Santander – around 190 miles each way.
Local authorities revealed that the accident happened when the tyre of Jota’s Lamborghini SUV burst while overtaking another vehicle. The car skidded off the road and caught fire, leading to the fatal crash.
Jota, who joined Liverpool in 2020 from Wolverhampton Wanderers FC, made 182 appearances for the Reds, scoring 65 goals. He played a key role in Liverpool’s recent successes, including winning the FA Cup and League Cup in 2022, as well as the Premier League title in 2025.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot and former boss Jürgen Klopp were among those who paid tribute to the Portuguese international, praising his talent, work ethic, and invaluable contributions to the team.
Born in Porto on 9 December, 1996, Diogo Jota began his professional career with FC Paços de Ferreira, before spells at Atlético de Madrid, FC Porto (loan), and Wolves, prior to his move to Anfield.
The football world has been united in grief as tributes pour in from fans, teammates, and clubs around the globe.
As a lasting tribute to Diogo Jota’s immense contribution, Liverpool will retire his iconic No. 20 jersey. The decision honours the profound impact Jota made during his five years at Anfield, where he became a beloved figure and helped the club win its historic 20th league title in the 2024/25 season.
A special commemoration is planned when the new season begins, ensuring Jota’s name and No. 20 shirt will forever be remembered at Anfield.
