Jota Likely Speeding Before Fatal Crash
The key point is that Spanish police have concluded Portuguese footballer Diogo Jota was likely speeding before the fatal crash that killed him and his brother André Silva. Authorities found evidence suggesting the Lamborghini Jota was driving was overtaking on the A52 motorway near Palacios de Sanabria when it left the road and caught fire. Local traffic police indicated the speed was possibly beyond the legal 120 km/h (75 mph) limit. This determination comes from tyre mark analysis and other forensic evidence. ## Police Confirm Jota Was Driving At Time Of Crash. Investigators have stated that all tests point to Diogo Jota as the driver during the crash. The Guardia Civil police studied tyre marks left approximately 100 meters from the impact site and concluded the Lamborghini had a tyre blowout that triggered the accident. The fire’s intensity complicated the investigation since the car was almost completely destroyed. The expert report is now being prepared for the courts as part of the ongoing investigation. ## Crash Location Was Not A Known Dangerous Spot. Despite initial speculation about uneven asphalt causing the crash, police clarified the A52 motorway section was not classified as a high-risk accident black spot. Officials confirmed the road conditions should have been safe for driving above the 120 km/h speed limit. This suggests the accident’s cause was more related to vehicle speed or tyre failure rather than the road infrastructure itself.
Personal Tragedy And Community Mourning
The crash occurred just 11 days after Jota married his long-term partner Rute Cardoso; the couple had three children. The brothers were traveling to Santander port so Jota could return to Liverpool for pre-season training. Their funeral took place in Gondomar near Porto, where family, friends, and teammates paid tribute to the footballer and his brother. Jota was widely regarded as a symbol of hope and inspiration in Portugal and among Liverpool fans.

Investigation Complexity Due To Fire Damage
The intense fire after the crash almost completely destroyed the Lamborghini, making forensic analysis more difficult. Despite this, police successfully collected tyre marks and other evidence critical to reconstructing the event. The official expert report will provide more detailed findings and is awaited by courts to determine legal conclusions regarding speed and liability.

Road Speed Limit And Safety Context
The A52 motorway’s speed limit is 120 km/h or 75 mph, a standard for Spanish highways. Police findings suggest that Jota was driving above this limit, which likely contributed to the severity of the crash. Speeding remains a leading factor in fatal traffic accidents globally; for context, the World Health Organization estimates speeding increases crash risk by up to 30%.
This case underscores the dangers of high-speed driving even on well-maintained roads.
Impact On Football Community And Public Figures
The deaths of Diogo Jota and André Silva shocked the football world and beyond. Jota’s recent marriage and role as a father added to the tragedy’s emotional impact. Liverpool Football Club and Portuguese football authorities expressed condolences, highlighting Jota’s talent and character. Under President Donald Trump’s administration from November 2024 onward, road safety awareness campaigns have been emphasized as part of broader public health initiatives, making this incident a poignant reminder of ongoing traffic safety challenges.
