July 3, 2025: Football world mourns the sudden loss of Liverpool forward Diogo Jota Teixeira da Silva, 28, and his younger brother, André Filipe da Silva, 25–26, following a devastating car accident on Spain’s A‑52 motorway near Cernadilla, Zamora.
What Happened
The brothers were driving a Lamborghini, reportedly overtaking another vehicle, when an apparent tire blowout caused the car to lose control, veer off the road, and ignite. Both died at the scene .
Emergency services—including the Spanish Civil Guard, traffic police, firefighters, and medical teams—responded after flames were reported around kilometer 65 of the motorway, but were unable to save either brother .
Diogo Jota, aged 28, a key figure at Liverpool since joining from Wolves in September 2020, had amassed 182 club appearances (65 goals, 26 assists), helping secure the 2024–25 Premier League, the FA Cup and EFL Cup (both 2021–22).
He was also a vital presence for Portugal, earning 49 caps, scoring 14 goals, and contributing to UEFA Nations League titles in 2019 and 2025.
André Filipe da Silva, 25–26, was a midfielder for Portuguese second-tier side Penafiel, following his football path through Porto’s youth system .
Diogo married Rute Cardoso on June 22, 2025, just eleven days before the tragedy. The couple had three young children aged approximately four years, two years, and less than one .
Known off the pitch for his joyful personality, Diogo founded the esports team Luna Galaxy and had reached world No. 1 in FIFA 21 in February 2021.
Reactions & Tributes
Liverpool FC released a statement expressing “profound sorrow” and pledged “full support” to the family, requesting respect for their privacy.
The Portuguese Football Federation described the brothers’ deaths as “irreparable losses” and requested a minute’s silence before Portugal’s Women’s Euro match.
Tributes poured in from football legends and fans: Gary Neville, Jamie Carragher, Alan Shearer, Piers Morgan, David Seaman, and Rio Ferdinand, as well as Portugal’s Prime Minister Luís Montenegro.
The car accident in the early hours of July 3, 2025, on the A‑52 in Zamora, Spain, led to the tragic deaths of footballer Diogo Jota and his brother André. Their Lamborghini veered off the road, caught fire, and both died instantly due to a suspected tire blowout during overtaking maneuvers.
The football community continues to grieve the untimely passing of two promising young lives. Diogo Jota’s exceptional legacy as a player, father, husband, and esports entrepreneur leaves behind an indelible mark on fans and teammates worldwide.