Jota and his brother Andre Silva were killed in the accident in Spain, which took place shortly after midnight local time on Thursday. 

The crash took place in the Spanish province of Zamora. Jota's brother was 26 and also a professional footballer. He played for Portuguese second-tier team Penafiel.

The devastating news comes nearly a month after Jota helped Ronaldo and Portugal to its second Nations League title after victory over Spain in the final on 8 June. 

"It doesn't make sense. Just now we were together in the National Team, just now you had gotten married," Ronaldo said. 

"To your family, your wife, and your children, I send my condolences and wish them all the strength in the world. I know you will always be with them. 

"Rest in Peace, Diogo and Andre. We will all miss you."

Jota was capped 49 times by Portugal since making his debut in November 2019, where he replaced Ronaldo in a 6-0 win over Lithuania in a Euro 2020 qualifier. 

The 28 year-old scored 14 goals for his country, the last of which came in a friendly against Croatia in June 2024. 

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin said the moment of presenting the Nations trophy to Portugal will now carry "sorrow" after the news of Jota's death.

"Just three weeks ago, I had the honour of presenting Diogo Jota with a medal after the UEFA Nations League final - a moment of joy, pride, and celebration that will now forever be burned in memory with sorrow," Ceferin said.

"His passion, energy and spirit on the field inspired everyone around him. It is devastating to think that a life so full of joy and potential has been taken far too soon. 

"Rest in peace, dear Diogo. You will not be forgotten."