Police say a tire blow-out during an overtaking manoeuvre caused the Lamborghini to veer off the road and burst into flames.
Jota had made 180+ appearances for Liverpool since joining from Wolves in 2020, helping the club win the Premier League, FA Cup, and Carabao Cup.
Liverpool FC, FC Porto, and football bodies worldwide have issued tributes requesting privacy for the family.
Spanish Civil Guard investigators say the crash occurred at 12:30 a.m. local time on the A-52 motorway near Cernadilla, Zamora. A burst tire allegedly sent the vehicle off the carriageway, where it caught fire, fatally injuring both men before emergency services could intervene.
Diogo Jota (28) – Portugal international forward, father of three, recently married his long-time partner, Rute Cardoso, less than two weeks ago.
André Silva (26) – Jota’s brother, a defender for Liga Portugal 2 side Penafiel and former FC Porto youth product.
Liverpool FC: “Devastated by the tragic passing of Diogo Jota… We ask for privacy as his family, friends, and teammates grieve this unimaginable loss.”
FC Porto: “Porto is in mourning…” Our deepest condolences to the family of Diogo and André.”
Tributes and moments of silence are planned across Premier League and international fixtures this weekend.
Club Seasons Matches Goals Honours
Wolverhampton Wanderers 2017-20 131 44 Championship Title (2018)
Liverpool 2020-25 185 64 Premier League (2024), FA Cup (2022), Carabao Cup (2022)
Portugal (Senior) 2019-25 39 12 UEFA Nations League (2023)
Spanish authorities have opened a formal investigation into the mechanical failure that triggered the crash. Liverpool FC is expected to hold a memorial at Anfield in the coming days, while the Premier League will consider black-armband tributes league-wide.
