Spanish investigators have concluded that the car crash resulting in the deaths of Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva was caused by a tyre blowout and have ruled out any criminal negligence. The investigation confirms a tragic accident, not foul play.

Investigation Findings

The High Court of Justice in the province of Zamora has officially ruled out any criminal liability in the tragic car crash that claimed the lives of former Liverpool striker Diogo Jota and his younger brother, Andre Silva. The incident occurred on July 3, 2025, near Cernadilla in northern Spain.

A comprehensive investigation determined that a blown-out tyre, experienced while overtaking another vehicle, was the primary cause of the accident. The court’s findings, reviewed with the assistance of road traffic collision experts, led to the dismissal of criminal proceedings last November.

Civil Action Possible

Authorities clarified that the decision to dismiss criminal proceedings does not prevent affected parties from pursuing civil action to seek appropriate compensation.

Details of the Incident

The brothers were embarking on a road trip to Santander, a northern Spanish port city, intending to catch a ferry to the United Kingdom. Jota was scheduled to return to Liverpool for pre-season training.

His decision to drive rather than fly stemmed from medical advice following lung surgery earlier in the summer. The tragedy unfolded just eleven days after Jota’s marriage to Rute Cardoso in Porto, Portugal.

Tributes and Support

The devastating loss prompted an outpouring of grief and tributes from the football community and beyond. A poignant funeral service was held for both Jota and Silva in Gondomar, Portugal, where they developed their skills during their academy years.

The Liverpool squad demonstrated their support by attending the funeral, with captain Virgil van Dijk carrying a wreath shaped like Jota’s iconic No. 20 shirt, and Andrew Robertson carrying a wreath representing Silva’s No. 30.

Footballing Careers

Both Jota and Silva were accomplished footballers. Jota had become a key player for Liverpool, contributing significantly to their 20th league title win with 10 goals under Arne Slot’s management. His untimely death prompted Liverpool to retire his No. 20 shirt across all teams.

Silva was also forging a professional career, playing for Portuguese second-tier side FC Penafiel after developing through the Porto academy.

Financial and Emotional Support

Liverpool’s owners, Fenway Sports Group (FSG), pledged to provide comprehensive financial support to Rute Cardoso and their three children, honouring the remainder of Jota’s contract, reportedly worth around £140,000 per week until 2027.

Touching tributes continued to emerge, with Jota’s former clubs, Liverpool and Wolves, witnessing fans singing his song in the 20th minute of matches. Two of Jota’s children even served as mascots during a Premier League game between Liverpool and Wolves, receiving heartfelt tributes from supporters of both teams.

Rute Cardoso expressed her gratitude for the overwhelming support, stating it meant more than words could convey.