Prince William has issued a rare and heartfelt message following the tragic death of Liverpool forward Diogo Jota, who passed away at just 28 years old alongside his younger brother in a car accident in Spain.

In a personal tribute shared on social media, the Prince of Wales expressed his sorrow over the loss, describing himself as “deeply saddened” by the news. The message was signed simply with a “W” — a customary way the royal signals he’s speaking personally, not through official channels.

The football-loving prince wrote:

“As part of the footballing family, I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Diogo Jota and his brother. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and all who knew him. @LFC @Wolves. W.”

Jota, who had recently married his longtime partner Rute in his hometown of Porto just two weeks earlier, died while traveling with his brother André. According to Spanish authorities, the two were driving through northern Spain on their way to catch an overnight ferry to the UK when their vehicle crashed. Initial reports suggest a tyre may have blown out during an overtaking maneuver on the A-52 near Zamora, roughly 10 miles from the Portuguese border.

Jota had reportedly been advised not to fly following recent lung surgery, and was on his way back to England to rejoin Liverpool’s pre-season training, which was set to begin on Monday.

The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the footballing world. Liverpool FC said they were “devastated” by the loss. Fans have begun leaving tributes and flowers outside Anfield in remembrance of the striker, whose final Instagram post just days earlier celebrated his wedding, calling himself “the luckiest man in the world.”

Prince William, who became royal patron of the Football Association (FA) in July 2024 — a role previously held by Queen Elizabeth II — has long been a visible supporter of the sport. He served as FA President from 2005 until earlier this year, often attending matches and speaking publicly about the power of football to bring communities together.

The prince’s message, brief yet deeply personal, reflects not just his position within the FA, but also his connection to the game as a lifelong fan.