Liverpool forward Diogo Jota has reportedly died in a car accident in Spain, according to Daily Mail.
The 28-year-old was said to be traveling with his brother, Andre, when their vehicle veered off the road along the A-52 highway in the Zamora province.
Jota’s tragic death comes just two weeks after he married his long-time partner, Rute Cardoso, in a ceremony held in Porto.
He recently contributed to Liverpool’s Premier League title win in May, during Arne Slot’s debut season as manager.
Jota was a key figure in Liverpool’s Premier League title win last season and also played for Portugal, contributing to their Nations League final victory over Spain in June.
In a statement, the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) expressed deep sorrow:
“The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) and all of Portuguese football are completely devastated,” read a FPF statement.
“Much more than an amazing player, with almost 50 international appearances, Diogo Jota was an extraordinary person, respected by all team-mates and opponents, someone with an infectious joy and a reference in the community itself.
“We have lost two champions. The passing of Diogo and Andre Silva represents irreparable losses for Portuguese football, and we will do everything to honor their legacy daily.”
The FPF has requested that European football’s governing body Uefa observe a minute’s silence before Portugal’s Women’s Euros game against Spain on Thursday.
Jota began his professional career with Pacos de Ferreira before joining Atletico Madrid in 2016 and he spent the 2016-17 season on loan with Porto, where his brother was a youth player.
“FC Porto is in mourning,” read a club statement.
“It is with shock and deep sorrow that we send our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva. Rest in peace.”
Jota scored 14 goals in 49 appearances for Portugal, helping them win the Nations League in 2019 and 2025.
Portugal’s prime minister Luis Montenegro said: “The news of the death of Diogo Jota, an athlete who greatly honoured Portugal’s name, and his brother is unexpected and tragic.
“I extend my deepest condolences to their family. It is a sad day for football and for national and international sports.”
