LISBON – Portuguese footballer and Liverpool FC star Diogo Jota has tragically passed away in a car accident in Spain, international media reported on Wednesday. He was 28.
The fatal crash occurred in the Spanish city of Zamora, where Jota was reportedly traveling with his brother when their car veered off the road. Both were inside the vehicle at the time of the incident.
While details of his brother’s condition remain unclear, reports confirmed that Jota did not survive the accident.
According to British media, the tragic incident came just days after Jota had tied the knot with his longtime partner, Rute Cardoso. The couple had recently celebrated their wedding and were parents to three children.
Jota, a prominent figure in Portuguese football, joined Liverpool in 2020 from Wolverhampton Wanderers in a £41 million transfer deal.
During his time with the Reds, he made over 100 appearances and was known for his clinical finishing, versatility in attack, and relentless work ethic.
He was also a regular feature in the Portugal national team and was part of the squad that recently lifted the UEFA Nations League title.
Jota’s sudden death has sent shockwaves across the footballing world, with fans, players, clubs, and officials expressing grief and paying tributes to a player remembered for both his talent on the pitch and his humility off it.
Liverpool Football Club and the Portuguese Football Federation are expected to release official statements soon.