Diogo Jota and Brother André Silva Die in Spanish Car Crash
Quick Facts
Date & time: Shortly after 00:30 (local) on 3 July 2025
Location: A‑11 motorway, about an hour west of Zamora, north‑western Spain
Vehicle: Lamborghini that left the road and burst into flames
Victims: Liverpool and Portugal forward Diogo Jota (28) and his younger brother André Silva (25)
Suspected cause: Front‑left tyre blow‑out; no other cars involved
Status of investigation: Spanish Civil Guard forensic team examining skid marks, debris and CCTV footage
What Happened?
Spanish Civil Guard officers say the brothers’ car veered off an isolated stretch of the A‑11 in the early hours of Thursday. The Lamborghini flipped, caught fire and ignited nearby scrubland before firefighters could reach the scene. Both men were pronounced dead at the roadside
Officials believe a sudden tyre blow‑out may have caused loss of control. However, investigators are also checking speed data from the vehicle’s onboard computer and roadside cameras to rule out mechanical failure or driver fatigue.
Diogo Jota: A Rising Star Cut Short
Full name: Diogo José Teixeira da Silva
Club career: 182 appearances for Liverpool since 2020; Premier League champion (May 2025), FA Cup and two Carabao Cups
International record: 49 caps, 14 goals; UEFA Nations League winner in 2019 and June 2025
Personal life: Married childhood sweetheart Rute Cardoso in mid‑June; father of three, youngest born last year
Jota’s infectious energy, pressing style and knack for crucial goals made him a fan favourite at Anfield. Only ten days ago he posted “Yes to forever” alongside wedding photos that have since been flooded with condolence messages.
André Silva’s Football Journey
While his elder brother shone on the Premier League stage, André earned respect in Portugal’s lower divisions with Penafiel. Coaches remember a hardworking forward who never missed a chance to cheer for Diogo from the stands.
Immediate Reaction from Clubs and Officials
Liverpool FC: “Devastated… We ask for privacy as family, friends, team‑mates and staff come to terms with an unimaginable loss.”
Portuguese Football Federation (FPF): Called Jota “an extraordinary person… a reference point in his community.”
Prime Minister Luís Montenegro: Expressed “deep national sorrow” and ordered flags flown at half‑mast on government buildings.
UEFA: One‑minute silences at all EURO 2025 fixtures on 3–4 July.
Tributes Pour In
Cristiano Ronaldo wrote on social media:
“It doesn’t make sense… To your family, your wife and your children, I send my condolences and all the strength in the world. We will all miss you.”
Atlético Madrid, Wolves, Liga Portugal and countless former team‑mates echoed similar sentiments, describing the brothers as “champions on and off the pitch.”
How the Investigation Will Unfold
Forensic inspection of the wreckage to confirm whether the blown tyre triggered the crash.
Toxicology tests (standard procedure) to eliminate alcohol or substance factors.
Data retrieval from the Lamborghini’s ECU for speed and steering inputs.
Road‑surface analysis to see if debris or oil contributed.
Final report expected within 30 days, according to the Civil Guard.
Support for the Jota Family
Liverpool have assigned club counsellors to Jota’s wife Rute and their children, while the FPF has launched a fund to assist both families with legal, travel and memorial costs. Supporters’ groups are organising a candlelit vigil outside Anfield this weekend.
Remembering Two Sons of Portugal
Diogo Jota and André Silva embodied ambition, humility and community spirit. From backyard kick‑abouts in Massarelos to professional pitches across Europe, their shared dream inspired countless young footballers. Their sudden loss leaves Portuguese football—and the wider sporting world—heart‑broken, but determined to honour their legacy.
Sources
Reuters, 3 July 2025
Associated Press, 3 July 2025
The Guardian, 3 July 2025
ESPN, 3 July 2025