,type=downsize)
The soccer world is in shock over the deaths of players Diogo Jota (28) and André Felipe Silva (26). The two brothers lost their lives early this morning when their Lamborghini veered off the Rías Bajas highway at kilometer 65 near Palacios de Sanabria (Zamora), close to the Portuguese border. Initial reports suggest that a tire may have blown out while overtaking, causing the high-end vehicle to leave the road and burst into flames. It was completely burned. Firefighters and emergency services who rushed to the scene couldn’t save them. Since the news broke early this morning, reactions have been pouring in from all over.
“As part of the footballing family, I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Diogo Jota and his brother. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and all who knew him @LFC @Wolves," said Prince William in a message after learning of the Liverpool forward’s death. Jota was a father of three and had married the love of his life, Rute Cardoso, just ten days ago. The British heir to the throne is president of the Football Association. Beyond the official role, he is a true fan of the sport and regularly attends matches across England.
Cristiano Ronaldo, who played alongside Diogo on the Portuguese national team and most recently during the Nations League, shared his devastation. “It doesn’t make sense,” Ronaldo wrote in Portuguese on his social media accounts. “Just now we were together in the national team; just now you had gotten married. To your family, your wife, and your children, I send my condolences and wish them all the strength in the world. I know you will always be with them. Rest in Peace, Diogo and André. We will all miss you.”
Everyone in the soccer world has come together to support the families of the two players. Inter Miami captain Lionel Messi wrote on his Instagram story, “Rest in peace,” alongside a picture of Jota. “Sometimes life is very cruel,” said David de Gea, who played for Manchester United from 2011 to 2023 and faced Diogo on the field many times. Darwin Jiménez shared how deeply he’ll miss his teammate. “There are no words to ease this much pain. I will always remember your smile as a great teammate on and off the field.” Firmino, a former Liverpool player, is still in disbelief and remembered his friend with deep affection. “When words fail, I get on my knees and pray for the Holy Spirit to comfort Rute’s heart. It was a privilege and an honor to have known you and shared such special moments with you. Rest in peace, my brothers Jota and André.”
"Deepest condolences, support, and thoughts are with those involved, their family, and loved ones. Rest in peace, Diogo & Andre," wrote Kylian Mbappé, joining the long list of players reacting to the heartbreaking news.
Other sports figures have also expressed their sorrow. Rafa Nadal expressed his sadness and pain upon hearing the news. "All my love, care, and support to his wife, children, family, and friends during such a difficult time. Rest in peace, Diogo Jota and André Silva.” LeBron James, NBA legend and Liverpool shareholder, also mourned the loss of one of the club’s most beloved players. "My prayers goes out to his loved ones during this time! May you all be guided and protected! YNWA JOTA!!"
The Portuguese Football Federation highlighted the personal side of their player, still unable to believe he will no longer be with the team. “The Portuguese Football Federation and all of Portuguese soccer are completely devastated by the death of Diogo Jota and André Silva this morning in Spain. He was much more than an incredible player, with nearly 50 caps for the senior national team. Diogo Jota was an extraordinary person, respected by teammates and rivals alike, someone with contagious joy and a true role model in the community.”
Atlético de Madrid, where Diogo played between 2016 and 2018, also expressed their grief. “Atlético de Madrid is shocked by the tragic news of the death of Diogo Jota, former player of the club, and his brother André. We send our deepest condolences to their family and loved ones. Rest in peace.”