A year ago today, Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva were killed in a car crash. ‘Everyone loved Diogo’ — the line captures the emotion still moving through football. Aged 28, the Liverpool forward had just won the Premier League title and had married only 11 days before the tragedy. His memory runs through this season and into World Cup 2026, where Portugal and England alike are set to honour him.
One Year On: Football Has Not Forgotten Diogo Jota
Diogo Jota died on 3 July 2025 in a car crash alongside his brother Andre Silva. A year on, tributes are pouring in across Liverpool and Portugal. The forward was 28 and left behind his wife Rute Cardoso, whom he had married just 11 days earlier, and their three children.
Only weeks before his death he had lifted the 2024-25 Premier League title with the Reds. Team-mates, rivals and supporters all describe the same man: quiet, generous and loved by everyone. ‘Everyone loved Diogo,’ those close to him recalled.
A Lasting Legacy at Liverpool
In 182 appearances for Liverpool, Diogo Jota scored 65 goals. He helped the club win the FA Cup and League Cup in 2022, as well as the 2024-25 Premier League title. Those numbers place him among the most cherished forwards of the club’s recent era.
Starting out at Portuguese side Paços de Ferreira, he joined Atletico Madrid in 2016 without playing a game, then shone at Porto and later Wolverhampton. His path reflects a career built match by match, all the way to the top of English football.
His Memory Heading Into World Cup 2026
World Cup 2026 will be the first major tournament without Diogo Jota. Portugal, his national side, will carry his memory, and many nations — including England — are expected to join the tributes before kick-off.
For supporters, the emotion remains raw. As England prepare for the tournament, football is reminded that, beyond rivalries, some losses bring everyone together. Jota’s memory will travel with this North American edition of the World Cup.
FAQ
How did Diogo Jota die?
Diogo Jota died on 3 July 2025 in a car crash, alongside his brother Andre Silva.
What did Diogo Jota win at Liverpool?
He scored 65 goals in 182 appearances and won the FA Cup and League Cup in 2022, plus the 2024-25 Premier League title.
How old was Diogo Jota?
He was 28 years old when he died.
Could Diogo Jota have played at World Cup 2026?
As a Portugal international, he was among the players in contention for the 2026 World Cup before his death.
How is football paying tribute to him?
Clubs, national teams and fans are paying tribute, and his memory is expected to be honoured before World Cup 2026.
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