GONDOMAR, Portugal (AP) – Family and friends of Liverpool forward Diogo Jota and his brother are gathering this Friday at a church for a wake and funeral, following the tragic deaths of the Portuguese soccer players due to a car crash in Spain.
The Capela da Ressurreição São Cosme in Gondomar set the somber backdrop as attendees embraced and wept upon arriving. A funeral service is scheduled for Saturday.
Diogo Jota, aged 28, and his brother, 25-year-old André Silva, were found deceased near Zamora in northwestern Spain after the Lamborghini they were driving crashed late on Thursday, shortly after midnight, and subsequently burst into flames. Spanish government officials confirmed their identities after the bodies were repatriated to Portugal.
Jota, who began his soccer career in Gondomar, a working-class town adjacent to Porto where he was born, had a deep connection to the area. His family maintains residence there, underscoring his commitment to his roots despite his professional success. Just two weeks prior to his death, he married his long-time partner Rute Cardoso while on vacation after helping Liverpool secure the Premier League title. The couple had three children, the youngest of whom was born last year.
Spanish police are currently investigating the cause of the crash, which reportedly did not involve any other vehicles. Meanwhile, Silva had been playing with Penafiel, a Portuguese club in the lower divisions.
In the wake of this tragedy, condolences have been expressing from Portuguese officials and the global soccer community. Liverpool fans have laid flower wreaths and team scarves outside Anfield Stadium, demonstrating solidarity and mourning alongside the family. Additionally, a moment of silence was observed before a match between Portugal and Spain at the Women’s European Championship in Switzerland, marking the profound impact of Jota’s loss.
The emotion of this loss has been particularly intense in Gondomar, especially at Jota's first soccer club, where he began playing at the age of 9. Gondomar SC director Anselmo Serra spoke of Jota’s loyalty to his friends and community, stating, “He never forgot his roots, nor his friends,” indicating that despite his success, Jota remained connected to those he grew up with, often inviting them to watch Liverpool matches in England.
The accident has sparked widespread mourning and reflection on the life of Diogo Jota, celebrated not only for his athletic achievements but also for his character and dedication to family and friends. As the investigation continues, the loss of both brothers has left an indelible mark on their community and the sport.
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Filipe Bento And Joseph Wilson, The Associated Press
