It was a tragedy compounded by coincidence.
The British 'BBC' reported on the 3rd (Korea time) that, citing announcements from Liverpool Football Club and local Spanish police, "DIO Jota died along with his brother in a traffic accident on the A-52 highway near Zamora, Spain."
According to police, the accident occurred in the early morning of the 3rd local time. While overtaking another vehicle, the Lamborghini being driven by Jota and Andre veered off the road due to a tire blowout, and soon the vehicle caught fire. The vehicle was completely burned, and the two died on the spot.
The tragedy occurred less than two weeks after Jota married his long-time partner, Ruth Cardoso. It was a devastating end for a man who had just become a father of three and had recently established a new family.
Liverpool released an official statement saying, "We are in shock upon hearing the tragic news of the accident involving Jota and his brother Andre. The club will not spare any support for family, friends, colleagues, and club staff as they cope with this immense loss. We ask that their privacy be respected at this time."
As news of the accident broke, the global football community expressed its condolences. Cristiano Ronaldo posted on social media, "It doesn't make sense. Just recently we were together on the national team, and you had just gotten married... My deepest condolences to his wife, children, and family. DIO and Andre, you will be forever missed."
The Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) announced that a moment of silence will be held to honor the Jota brothers during the upcoming Spain vs. Portugal women's Euro 2025 qualifying match on the morning of the 4th. The Premier League and the Football Association (FA) also expressed their condolences, stating, "DIO was a champion on the field and a player who will be remembered forever."
According to the BBC, since the morning of that day, fans have been flocking to Anfield, Liverpool's home ground, to pay tribute to Jota. The lawn in front of the Hillsborough memorial was filled with Liverpool jerseys, bouquets, scarves, and cards containing messages. Even a scarf brought by a Manchester United fan was inscribed with the words 'RIP Diogo, YNWA (You'll Never Walk Alone).' Fans of local rivals Everton also paid their respects by placing a jersey that said 'RIP Jota.'
Liverpool legends also memorialized Jota on social media. Jamie Carragher said, "The news I heard this morning is devastating. My thoughts are with Ruth and their three children, as well as all family and friends," while Steven Gerrard left a brief yet poignant message: "RIP DIO. I will stand with the bereaved family in this unbelievable sorrow."
Jota was one of the key players in Liverpool's Premier League championship last season. He began his career at FC Fasoo de Peheira before moving on to Atlético Madrid, Porto, and Wolverhampton, joining Liverpool in 2020 and recording 65 goals in 182 appearances, winning two League Cups and one FA Cup. For the Portugal national team, he scored 14 goals in 49 matches and was part of the UEFA Nations League-winning team.
Teammate Darwin Núñez expressed on social media, "I will remember every moment we had together. I will never forget your infectious smile and that you were the best colleague both on and off the field," adding, "No words can ease this pain, but I believe you will protect your family from there."
The impact of this incident has brought sorrow beyond the club, fans, and national team, affecting the entire football community. Premier League clubs Manchester City, Manchester United, and Everton also expressed their deep condolences regarding the tragic accident involving DIO and Andre, stating, "We share our hearts with Liverpool Football Club, all affiliated individuals, and their fans."
Keir Starmer, the UK's Prime Minister, was also shocked during a press conference, stating, "I was deeply shocked to hear the news about DIO Jota. On behalf of all citizens, I extend my heartfelt condolences to Jota's family and friends. Whether a football fan or not, everyone will feel heartbroken by this news."
Liverpool still cannot accept Jota's death. One fan told the BBC, "He was a player who always brought us goals with a smile. But now, football means nothing."
Particularly, Jota had just married his wife in Portugal on the 23rd and attended a friend's wedding last weekend in Spain. He was en route to return to Liverpool. Liverpool's preseason is set to start on July 8, and Jota was scheduled to return for it.
The reason for traveling by car was also coincidental. After undergoing surgery for recent lung issues, Jota was returning to Liverpool by car on the advice of his doctor instead of flying. He planned to travel from Porto to Santander by car, then take a ferry to southern England before taking another car to Liverpool.
It is a tragedy compounded by coincidence. Jota suffered an unexpected accident while traveling with his brother, who attended the wedding, leaving a significant shock in the world of football. His family and close friends are in deep sorrow, and football fans and Liverpool supporters are unable to contain their shock at his sudden passing.
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