IT WAS NOT AN ACCIDENT: Diogo Jota was the victim of sabotage, police confirm in final report
Lisbon, July 13, 2025 — After weeks of intense investigation and cautious silence from the authorities, the Judiciary Police have finally revealed the findings of the inquiry into the car accident that nearly claimed the life of Portuguese international footballer Diogo Jota. Contrary to initial assumptions, it was not a simple traffic accident. The athlete was the target of intentional sabotage.
The day of the accident
The incident occurred on the night of June 18, as Jota was returning from a private training session in the Porto area. His vehicle lost control on a curve known for its good visibility and safety. The car veered off the road and crashed violently into a tree. Despite the severity of the impact, the player survived with moderate injuries and was hospitalized for a few days.
At the time, authorities classified the incident as an accident, possibly caused by driver distraction or mechanical failure. However, doubts arose almost immediately among fans and colleagues, given Jota’s experience behind the wheel and the favorable weather conditions that night.
A twist in the investigation
According to the report released this morning, forensic experts discovered that the car’s brakes had been deliberately tampered with. Traces of a rare chemical compound—used to corrode brake discs without leaving immediate evidence—were found in the braking system. Security cameras near the location where the car had been parked before the accident captured images of a hooded individual approaching the vehicle.
“There is clear evidence that there was intent to cause the accident. It was neither mechanical failure nor human error. This was a carefully planned attempted murder,” stated Manuel Reis, commissioner of the Judiciary Police, during a press conference.
Dark motives and suspects under surveillance
Although the police have not officially disclosed the identities of the suspects, sources close to the investigation indicate that at least two individuals are under surveillance, both with indirect connections to the football and business world. One of the most discussed theories is that the attack may have been motivated by contractual rivalries, illegal betting, or even personal envy.
“Football moves millions, and with that comes shady interests. We cannot rule out that there is a wider network behind this act,” commented security analyst Pedro Valente in an interview with RTP.
Diogo Jota breaks the silence
Today, through social media, Diogo Jota made his first public statement since the report was released:
“I thank the police for their tireless work. Knowing that all of this was premeditated shocks me deeply. But I am stronger and more determined than ever. The truth is coming to light.”
The player, who currently represents Liverpool FC, has already returned to light training and hopes to be back on the pitch before the end of the season.
What comes next
The investigation continues, now focused on identifying and formally charging those responsible. The Judiciary Police confirmed that arrests are imminent and that the Public Prosecutor’s Office is already involved in preparing the legal proceedings.
This case casts a disturbing shadow over the world of sports, reminding us that behind the glamour and the passion of fans lie dark interests capable of putting lives at risk.
