Tragedy struck as Liverpool football star Diogo Jota, aged 28, died in a car crash in Zamora, Spain, just 11 days after marrying his childhood sweetheart, Rute Cardoso.
According to local reports, the crash occurred early on Thursday morning on the Rias Bajas Highway, close to the Spanish-Portuguese border. Jota’s brother, Andre, also tragically died in the incident. The police confirmed that no other vehicles were involved, but details regarding the driver of the vehicle have not yet been disclosed.
Jota, who was part of Liverpool’s Premier League-winning side in the 2024/25 season, had celebrated his wedding to Cardoso in Porto on June 22, 2025. The couple had been together since 2012, and Jota had proposed in 2022. Following their wedding, the couple shared videos and images celebrating their special day, marking a joyful beginning before the heartbreaking tragedy.
The Portuguese Football Federation confirmed Jota’s death, sending condolences to his family. Jota’s career was marked by several achievements, including winning the Premier League, FA Cup, and League Cup with Liverpool, and two UEFA Nations League titles with Portugal.
Moving tributes poured in from across the football world. Portugal’s Prime Minister LuĂs Montenegro expressed his sorrow, calling the deaths of Jota and his brother “unexpected and tragic.” Former teammate Ruben Neves shared an emotional message, saying, “They say we only lose people when we forget them. I will never forget you.”
Liverpool Football Club also issued a statement expressing their devastation, requesting privacy for Jota and Andre’s family and loved ones as they navigate this unimaginable loss. The club has pledged full support to the grieving families.
