Softfootball have gathered that Spanish authorities believe Diogo Jota was driving over the legal speed limit when the Liverpool forward and his younger brother were killed in a car crash last week.
UK Guardian explained that the Spanish police authorities told the public that they suspected overspeeding to be the reason for the Jota brothers’ death.
The 28-year-old Portugal international died alongside his 25-year-old brother, André Silva, after their Lamborghini veered off the A52 motorway in Zamora, northwest Spain, last Thursday. The vehicle reportedly burst into flames following the incident.
On Tuesday, Spain’s Civil Guard released new findings from its ongoing investigation, stating it suspects the car was travelling faster than the 120 km/h (75 mph) limit at the time of a suspected tyre blowout. It is the first time authorities have confirmed they believe Jota was behind the wheel. Theser were their statements;
“The expert report is being finalised, and among other elements, it includes analysis of the skid marks left by one of the tyres,” said a Civil Guard spokesperson. “All indications suggest the vehicle was being driven well above the permitted speed, and all evidence points to Diogo Jota as the driver.”
According to the police, the final report will be submitted to the court in Puebla de Sanabria once the investigation is complete.
Jota and Silva are believed to have been travelling to Santander to board a ferry to the UK, ahead of Jota’s planned return to Liverpool for pre-season. Following a recent lung procedure, the striker had reportedly been advised against flying.
The brothers were laid to rest on Saturday in their hometown of Gondomar, near Porto.
Liverpool delayed the start of preseason following Jota’s death. Several players, including Mohamed Salah and Andy Robertson, both of whom posted emotional tributes, returned to the AXA Training Centre on Tuesday. The full squad is expected to regroup by Thursday ahead of their first preseason friendly against Preston on Sunday.
As earlier reported by Softfootball, Liverpool has pledged a long-term commitment to the late footballer. Liverpool have confirmed they will honour the full remainder of Diogo Jota’s contract, ensuring his family continues to receive his salary over the next two years.
Liverpool described the gesture as part of a broader commitment to support the late player’s family following the tragic road accident in Spain that claimed the lives of Jota and his brother, André Silva.
