Liverpool Football Club has paid a deeply emotional tribute to Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva on the first anniversary of their tragic deaths, describing the loss as causing "immeasurable pain" and leaving a legacy that has "shone through" over the past year. The club posted a moving message across social media on Friday, July 3, 2026, exactly one year after the fatal car crash in northern Spain that claimed the lives of the Portuguese forward and his younger sibling.
Club Statement and Retired Shirt Number
In a statement released on social media, Liverpool said: "Today, as every day, we remember Diogo Jota and Andre Silva, who tragically passed away one year ago. Through immeasurable loss and incalculable pain, the impact they made and the legacies they left behind - not only within the footballing world, but in the hearts and minds of so many around the world - has shone through over the last 12 months." The club added: "All of our love, support, thoughts and prayers continue to be with Diogo and Andre's families, friends and all those whose lives were touched by them. Forever in our hearts, forever our number 20."
Liverpool retired Jota's No.20 shirt number shortly after his death, a decision that remains in place. On the club's official website, Liverpool further stated: "He will forever be our No.20, our lad from Portugal. The support of everyone at Liverpool FC continues to be, and always will be, with all of Diogo and Andre’s family, and our thoughts are especially with them on this very sad and difficult day."
Memorial Statue Unveiled at Anfield
On the eve of the anniversary, Thursday, July 2, Liverpool unveiled a permanent memorial statue titled "Forever 20" on 97 Avenue outside Anfield. The sculpture, created by artist Emma Rodgers, features a flowing heart shape that references Jota's iconic goal celebration, along with the numbers 20 and 30—a nod to the squad numbers worn by Diogo and Andre respectively. A PlayStation controller is also included on the plinth, reflecting Jota's well-known passion for gaming.
Rodgers said: "I am so honoured to have created the memorial for Diogo Jota and Andre Silva for Liverpool FC. Liverpool FC has installed this permanent memorial at Anfield in tribute to Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva, on the eve of the first anniversary of their tragic passing. Named 'Forever 20', it celebrates their lives, their bond, and the love and respect felt for them by family, teammates and supporters across the world."
Funeral and Tributes from Teammates
The brothers were laid to rest in Gondomar, Portugal, shortly after the accident. The funeral was attended by several of Jota's Liverpool and international teammates, including then-captain Virgil van Dijk and his deputy Andy Robertson, who laid floral tributes on behalf of the club. The accident occurred in the early hours of July 3, 2025, as Jota was driving back to the UK for pre-season training.
The club's tribute underscores the enduring impact of the tragedy on the Liverpool community, with fans and players alike continuing to honour the memory of the two brothers. The statue outside Anfield serves as a lasting reminder of their contribution to the club and the bond they shared.
