The Prince of Wales, Prince William, Patron of the Football Association (FA), has expressed his sadness at the announcement of the death of Diogo Jota, 28, and his brother Andre Silva, 26.
The two brothers died when the tyre of the Lamborghini they were travelling in burst as they attempted to overtake another vehicle at around 12.30am today, forcing them off of the road, where the vehicle burst into flames.
Tributes have poured in for the former Wolverhampton Wanderers attacker and his brother, including a heartfelt statement from Prince William.
The Prince of Wales expressed his condolences following the news of Diogo Jota's death (Adam Davy/PA)
The Prince of Wales expressed his condolences following the news of Diogo Jota’s death
The statement said: "As part of the footballing family, I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Diogo Jota and his brother.
"Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and all who knew him."
The tragic death comes only two weeks after Jota married his long-term partner, Rute Cardoso, with whom he had three children.
Diogo Jota on his wedding day with wife Rute Cardoso (Picture: Diogo Jota/X)
Diogo Jota on his wedding day with wife Rute Cardoso
The football star played left wing and up front for Liverpool after joining from Wolves in 2020.
Tributes of flowers and heartfelt messages have been quickly growing opposite the Billy Wright statue outside the Molineux Stadium.
Former team-mate and ex-Wolves captain, Ruben Neves, led the tributes to Jota, posting on Instagram, he said: "They saw we only lose people when we never forget them. I will never forget you!"
Diogo Jota had scored 44 goals in 131 games with Wolves
Diogo Jota had scored 44 goals in 131 games with Wolves
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer also paid tribute to the late footballer, saying that he was 'devastated' to hear the news of his passing.
He said, "Let me start with Jota, because this is devastating news.
"I'm sure I speak for everyone in saying our first thoughts are going to be with his family and his friends in particular.
Sir Keir Starmer
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, offered his condelences to Jota's family, friends and many supporters
"But there are millions of Liverpool fans, but also football fans, and non-football fans who will also be shocked by this.
"I think Liverpool Football Club have just put a statement out, as I understand it, but it is devastating, and it is really important we bear in mind just how difficult this will be for his friends and for his family."