Diogo Jota’s shocking and tragic death has sent shockwaves throughout the world of football, with John Ruddy leading Newcastle United’s emotional tributes for his former teammate.
The devastating news broke early on Thursday morning that Liverpool forward Diogo Jota has tragically died at the age of 28 in a car crash.
Andre Silva, 26, his brother and a fellow footballer for Portuguese side Penafiel, has also died in the accident.
Marca reports that the brothers were in an accident in the province of Zamora, and died when their car ran off the road and caught fire.
The Daily Mail adds that the car’s tyre blew out while overtaking on the A-52 road in northwestern Spain, came off the road, rolled and was engulfed in flames.
Jota recently married long-term partner Rute Cardoso, the mother of his three children, in Porto on June 22.
The news has rocked the football world, with messages of condolences and tributes flooding in, including from figures at Newcastle United.
Diogo Jota holds the Nations League trophy and his winners medal after Portugal defeated Spain in the final.
Photo by Maja Hitij – UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images
Alan Shearer leads Newcastle United condolences after Diogo Jota’s death
Goalkeeper John Ruddy, who was a teammate of Jota’s at Wolves, sent a touching message.
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He wrote on his Instagram story: “Such sad news. Sending my thoughts and prayers to Diogo & Andre’s family.
“Was a pleasure to know you, my friend. Rest in peace.”
A screen shot of John Ruddy's Instagram as he pays tribute to Diogo Jota.
John Ruddy pays tribute to Diogo Jota. Credit: @johnruddry.86 on Instagram.
Newcastle legend Alan Shearer took to X to write: “Heartbreaking,” accompanied by crying and broken heart emojis.
Newcastle’s official X account posted: “We are deeply saddened to learn the heartbreaking news of Diogo Jota’s passing.
“Our heartfelt condolences are with Diogo’s young family, friends and everyone at Liverpool Football Club during this incredibly difficult time.
“Rest in peace, Diogo.”
We are deeply saddened to learn the heartbreaking news of Diogo Jota's passing.
Our heartfelt condolences are with Diogo’s young family, friends and everyone at Liverpool Football Club during this incredibly difficult time.
Rest in peace, Diogo. ❤️ https://t.co/KCWk1kYlRH pic.twitter.com/LdrJlqivFe
— Newcastle United (@NUFC) July 3, 2025
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Sandro Tonali was the first Newcastle player to share a tribute, as he posted a prayer emoji when reacting to the news on his Instagram story.
A screen shot of Sandro Tonali's Instagram story as he pays tribute to Diogo Jota.
Tonali’s tribute to Jota. Credit of: @sandrotonali on Instagram.
Sven Botman also posted a love heart, a prayer and a turtle dove emoji to his Instagram story.
Liverpool FC make statement on Diogo Jota’s passing
Liverpool FC published the following statement on the death of their player, Jota.
It read: “Liverpool Football Club are devastated by the tragic passing of Diogo Jota.
“The club have been informed the 28-year-old has passed away following a road traffic accident in Spain along with his brother, Andre.
“Liverpool FC will be making no further comment at this time and request the privacy of Diogo and Andre’s family, friends, teammates and club staff is respected as they try to come to terms with an unimaginable loss.
“We will continue to provide them with our full support.”