Diogo Jota’s sad story: From dream wedding to tragic accident and death

Diogo Jota and Rute Cardoso on their wedding day, just days before the tragedy.
The football world is in mourning following the untimely death of Diogo Jota, the 28-year-old Liverpool and Portugal forward, who tragically passed away in a car accident on July 3, 2025.
The incident occurred in the early hours on the A-52 highway in Zamora, Spain, while Jota and his 26-year-old brother, André Silva, were traveling from Penafiel.
Reports indicate that their Lamborghini veered off the road and caught fire after a tire blowout during an overtaking maneuver. Both Jota and his brother were declared dead at the scene.
A Joyful Union Cut Short: Diogo Jota’s Wedding
Just ten days prior to the tragic accident, on June 22, 2025, Diogo Jota married his longtime partner, Rute Cardoso, in a heartfelt ceremony in Porto, Portugal.
The couple, who share three young children, had been together for over a decade. Rute shared their joy on social media, posting a photo from their wedding day with the caption, “My dream came true,” to which Jota responded, “I’m the lucky one.”
Remembering Diogo Jota: A Legacy of Talent and Kindness
Diogo Jota was renowned for his explosive pace, clinical finishing, and versatility on the field. Since joining Liverpool from Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2020, he scored 65 goals in 182 appearances and contributed significantly to the team’s successes, including winning the Premier League, FA Cup, and League Cup.
On the international stage, Jota earned 49 caps and scored 14 goals for Portugal, helping secure two UEFA Nations League titles.
Off the pitch, Jota was known for his warm and friendly personality, making him a beloved figure in the Liverpool dressing room and among fans worldwide.
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Tributes Pour In: Football Community Mourns
The news of Jota’s passing has elicited an outpouring of tributes from the football community. Liverpool FC expressed deep sorrow, stating, “Diogo was a fantastic player and an even better person.”
The Portuguese Football Federation has requested a minute of silence in his honor during the upcoming Women’s European Championship match against Spain.