Spanish police have confirmed that Liverpool and Portugal forward Diogo Jota was likely speeding when his car veered off the motorway last weekend, resulting in the tragic deaths of the 28-year-old and his younger brother, Andre Silva, aged 25.
The fatal accident occurred on July 3 along the A-52 highway in Zamora province, northwestern Spain. The vehicle reportedly crashed while overtaking and burst into flames, killing both occupants at the scene.
Read Also: Diogo Jota: Six things to know about the life and career of Liverpool star
An ongoing investigation by the Spanish Civil Guard has revealed new details, with a spokesperson stating on Tuesday that “everything points to a possible excessive speed beyond the road’s speed limit”. Spanish motorways typically have a limit of 120 km/h (75 mph).
The site of the crash was described as a relatively straight stretch of road leading into a bend, raising suspicions that speed may have played a major role in the accident. Earlier reports also suggested that a tyre blowout may have contributed to the crash.
Police have now confirmed that Diogo Jota was driving the vehicle at the time of the incident.
Tragic timing and loss
The deaths came just days after Jota’s wedding to long-time partner Rute Cardoso, with whom he shared three children. Hours before the crash, Jota had posted a heartfelt video of their June 22 wedding on social media.
Portuguese and UK outlets report that Jota was driving to the northern Spanish port of Santander to board a ferry to England for Liverpool’s pre-season training. He reportedly opted for land and sea travel on medical advice following a recent lung operation, avoiding air travel.
A nation and the football world in mourning
The football community continues to reel from the shock loss. Political leaders, former teammates, Liverpool officials, and Portugal international stars gathered in mourning at Jota’s funeral held on Saturday in Gondomar, a suburb of Porto.
At Liverpool’s Anfield stadium, fans have created a touching memorial, laying flowers, scarves, jerseys, and photos of the beloved striker.
Jota, who joined Liverpool from Wolves in 2020, scored 65 goals in five seasons for the club. He won both the League Cup and FA Cup in the 2021/22 season and was instrumental in helping Liverpool clinch a record-equalling 20th English league title last season.
He earned 49 caps for Portugal, playing a key role in their UEFA Nations League triumph earlier this year.
Liverpool resumed training on Tuesday, having postponed the start of their pre-season in the wake of the tragedy. The club has also paused ticket sales for an upcoming friendly against Preston North End, as officials deliberate over whether to proceed with the fixture.
Jota’s younger brother, Andre Silva, played as a midfielder for FC Penafiel in Portugal’s second division.
As investigations continue, tributes continue to pour in for the striker, whose passing has left a profound void in football, both in Portugal and around the world.
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