Recommendations of the Editorial team
On July 3, 2025, the sports and music world achieved a tragic news, Diogo Jota, star player of FC Liverpool and Portuguese international, died in a car accident in northern Spain at the age of 28. His 25-year-old brother André Silva, also a professional footballer, died.
One of the many prominent voices that the exceptional player tribute was, Robert Plant, singer of Led Zeppelin. And Vice President of Wolverhampton Wanderers, Jota’s former club. Plant wrote on X (formerly Twitter):
“What a tragic loss. The extinguishing of a bright, radiant light. Thank you for your magic, Diogo.”
From promotion with the Wolves to the title with Liverpool
Jota’s career was characterized by success, dedication and tireless efforts. In the 2017/18 season he was instrumental in Wolverhampton’s promotion to the Premier League. He then stayed with the Wolves for two more years before moving to FC Liverpool for £ 41 million in 2020.
At the reds, Jota experienced his sporting heyday: with the team he won the Premier League (2024/25), the FA Cup and twice the EFL Cup. He also played 49 caps for Portugal. It was only in June that he celebrated the win of the UEFA Nations League with the national team.
An idol on and next to the square
In addition to his sporting performances, Jota was considered an exemplary teammate, loving family man and a committed husband. Only 11 days ago he married his partner Rut Cardoso. Together they had three small children who now have to grow up without their father.
The fatal accident occurred on the way from Portugal to Santander in northern Spain. From there, Jota wanted to go back to England by ferry to appear for preparatory training in Liverpool. Due to a medical intervention, he was advised against flying. According to reports, a tire burst during an overtaking maneuver. Whereupon the vehicle came off the street and caught fire.
Worldwide grief – voices for the death of Diogo Jotas
The sympathy was also great outside of the club borders. Cristiano Ronaldo, Jota’s national team colleague, wrote on Instagram:
“It makes no sense. Only recently did we stand together on the pitch. You just got married. I know you will always be with them. Quiet in peace, Diogo and André. We will miss you.”
The former Liverpool coach Jürgen Klopp was deeply affected:
“I am destroyed. Diogo was not only a fantastic player. But also a great friend. A loving husband and father. We will miss you very much.”
Robert Plant, who grew up in Black Country as a child and has been Vice President of the Wolverhampton Wanderers since 2009, has followed Jota’s career right from the start. His words underline the lasting impression that the Portuguese offensive player not only left in terms of sport, but also humanly.