Twelve months have passed since the football world was devastated by the news that Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva died in a car crash. The heartbreaking nature of Jota's last Instagram post before the accident still resonates deeply.
Jota, 28 at the time of his death, had spent five years at Liverpool, winning the Premier League, FA Cup, and League Cup, and finishing runner-up in the Champions League. He also won two UEFA Nations League titles with Portugal, the second in June 2025 against Spain.
Final Post Captures Wedding Joy
Just 11 days before the crash, Jota married his childhood sweetheart Rute Cardoso. On July 2, 2025, he posted a video compilation of their wedding with the caption: "June 22, 2025. Yes to forever [Infinity emoji]."
The video showed behind-the-scenes moments and included a voiceover: "Dear Rute, dear Diogo. This is a day that will mark your lives for the rest of your days. This is the only day that you have been able to get together, at the same time in the same place your family, your friends to celebrate what truly matters, which is love."
Less than 24 hours after the post, news of the fatal crash emerged. The video remains pinned at the top of Jota's Instagram account as a tribute to what he treasured most.
Legacy and Family
Jota is survived by Rute and their three children: sons Dinis and Duarte, and a daughter born in November 2024. The sons served as mascots when Liverpool faced Wolves in December 2025. Rute has repeatedly thanked Liverpool fans for their support.
Portugal's national team, competing in the 2026 World Cup, wear wristbands bearing Jota's name to honor his memory. According to manager Roberto Martinez, the gesture is a way to carry his legacy forward.
