Liverpool and Ronaldo Lead Emotional Tributes
Liverpool have expressed their devastation following the death of forward Diogo Jota, who died in a car crash in Spain at the age of 28. His younger brother Andre Silva, 25, also lost his life in the accident, which occurred in the province of Zamora after a tyre blowout caused their vehicle to veer off the road and catch fire.
Just weeks prior, Jota had married long-time partner Rute Cardoso, with whom he shared three children.
Cristiano Ronaldo, who played alongside Jota for Portugal, wrote on social media:
“It doesn’t make sense. Just now we were together in the national team, you had just got married. I know you’ll always be with them. Rest in peace, Diogo e Andre. We will miss you.”
Liverpool and Klopp Pay Respects
In an official club statement, Liverpool FC said:
“We are devastated by the tragic passing of Diogo Jota. This is an unimaginable loss. We ask for privacy for the family, friends, team-mates, and staff as they come to terms with it.”
Former manager Jurgen Klopp, who brought Jota to Anfield from Wolves in 2020, shared his grief on Instagram:
“This is a moment where I struggle. Diogo was not only a fantastic player, but a great friend, a loving and caring husband and father. We will miss you so much.”
Tributes Across Portugal and UEFA
The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) called Jota “much more than an amazing player.”
“He was an extraordinary person, full of joy, and respected by all. The passing of Diogo and Andre represents irreparable losses. We will honour their legacy every day.”
UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin remembered presenting Jota with a Nations League medal just weeks ago.
“That moment of joy will now forever be marked with sorrow.”
UEFA confirmed a minute’s silence will be held at all Women’s European Championship matches on Thursday and Friday, including Portugal’s game against Spain.
Global Figures Join in Mourning
FIFA President Gianni Infantino stated both brothers “will be sorely missed by the global football community.”
Portugal's President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa praised Jota’s role in “taking Portuguese football to the highest level,” while Prime Minister Luis Montenegro described the news as “unexpected and tragic.”
In the UK, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy both shared condolences in the House of Commons.
“This is devastating. It’s important we remember how difficult this time is for his loved ones,” Starmer said.
Prince William, President of the FA, added via social media:
“I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Diogo Jota and his brother. Our thoughts are with all who knew them.”
Teammates and Icons Remember a Friend
Darwin Núñez, Jota’s Liverpool teammate, shared:
“I will always remember your smile. You were a good companion on and off the field. My strength goes to your wife and children.”
Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher told Sky Sports:
“This is unimaginable. Life can change so quickly. Just weeks ago he had the best moment of his life. Now, this.”
Other footballing figures also paid tribute:
Steven Gerrard: “RIP Diogo. Condolences to all who loved him.”
Ruben Neves: “We only lose people when we forget them. I’ll never forget you.”
Raul Jiménez: “A great teammate and friend. We’ll always remember you.”
Jack Grealish and Diogo Dalot said they were left “speechless.”
LeBron James, Liverpool minority owner, offered “prayers to his loved ones.”
Rafael Nadal called the news “sad and painful” and sent support to the family.
Clubs United in Grief
The Premier League described Jota as “a champion who will be forever missed” and pledged support to Liverpool.
Wolves, where Jota made his name in the Premier League, said:
“Diogo was adored by fans, loved by teammates, and cherished by all at the club. He will always be remembered.”
Manchester United, Everton, and Sporting CP also expressed condolences.
Porto, where both brothers played in their youth, said:
“This is a moment of profound dismay. Two exemplary men are gone too soon.”
Paços de Ferreira, where Jota began his career, said the brothers were “humble, dedicated and beloved.”
Penafiel, where Andre Silva played most recently, called their deaths “painful and deeply saddening.”
Legacy of a Footballing Family
Jota scored 65 goals in 182 appearances for Liverpool and won multiple titles, including the Premier League in 2023-24 and domestic cups in 2021-22. He earned 49 caps for Portugal, scoring 14 goals and playing a key role in their Nations League success.
Andre Silva was continuing his career in Portugal’s second division, with 59 appearances for Penafiel in the past two seasons.
The footballing world mourns not just the loss of talent, but of two brothers who embodied humility, family, and joy both on and off the pitch.
