Diogo Jota's wife Rute Cardoso (C,R) and her sister react as former teammates carry the coffin during the funerals of Liverpool's Portuguese forward Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva at the Mother Church of Gondomar, on the outskirts of Porto, on July 5, 2025. Liverpool forward Diogo Jota and his brother died in a car crash in Spain on July 3, 2025, sparking widespread grief just after the Portugal star had got married. (Photo by MIGUEL RIOPA / AFP)
Hundreds of mourners gathered in the Portuguese town of Gondomar on Saturday to bid an emotional farewell to Liverpool forward Diogo Jota and his brother André Silva, who tragically lost their lives in a car accident last month in Spain.
The funeral ceremony, held at the local parish church, was attended by family, friends, football teammates, and supporters who came to pay their last respects to the beloved footballer and his brother. The quiet town of Gondomar, where the two brothers grew up, was brought to a standstill as the funeral procession made its way through the streets.
Jota, 28, and André Silva, 26, died on June 3, 2025, when their vehicle veered off the road in Valladolid, Spain, reportedly following a tyre blowout. The devastating news sent shockwaves through the football community, with tributes pouring in from clubs, players, and fans around the world.
Liverpool Football Club was represented by senior officials and teammates who joined the grieving family in honoring Jota’s life and career. Portugal national team members and representatives from Jota’s former clubs, including FC Porto and Wolverhampton Wanderers, were also present at the somber ceremony.
Local residents described Jota as a humble and generous figure who never forgot his roots despite his football success. His brother André, who also pursued a career in football, was remembered as a passionate and supportive sibling.
A joint eulogy celebrated their close bond and their dedication to family and sport. “Diogo and André left a mark on everyone they met. They will be remembered not just for their talent, but for their kindness, humility, and love for each other,” a family representative said during the service.
As the caskets were lowered into the ground, the air was filled with tears, prayers, and a final round of applause in honor of the two brothers who departed far too soon.
The Portuguese Football Federation has announced plans to hold a special tribute in their upcoming international fixtures to celebrate Jota’s contributions to the national team.
The loss of Diogo Jota and André Silva remains a profound tragedy, with their memory forever etched in the hearts of their family, friends, and the global football family.
