In an unexpected act of generosity, the tech mogul reaches out to support the grieving club. Players react with emotion, and fans are stunned by Musk’s surprising connection to the late Portuguese star.

LIVERPOOL, UK — July 4, 2025 — In the wake of heartbreaking news that Liverpool FC forward Diogo Jota has tragically passed away following a reported training ground accident, the football world has been plunged into mourning. Shock, grief, and tributes have poured in globally — but none more surprising than a dramatic gesture made by tech billionaire Elon Musk.

In a statement released just hours after Liverpool FC confirmed Jota’s death, Musk announced that he will be donating a brand-new customized Tesla vehicle to every member of the Liverpool first-team squad, coaching staff, and selected club personnel as a show of solidarity and support.

“Diogo Jota was a player I deeply admired — not just for his talent on the pitch, but for the spirit he embodied,” Musk posted on X (formerly Twitter). “In memory of his energy, passion, and relentless drive, I want to give something back to the team he called family.”

The statement stunned fans, many of whom were unaware that Musk had followed football closely, let alone Liverpool FC. Sources close to the entrepreneur say Musk had met Jota briefly during a charity event in California in 2023 and was struck by the player’s humility and intelligence.

The tragic incident occurred during a routine training session at the AXA Training Centre earlier this week. While full details remain confidential at the request of the family, club officials confirmed the 28-year-old forward collapsed unexpectedly. He was rushed to a nearby hospital but pronounced dead shortly after arrival.

Liverpool FC manager Jürgen Klopp, visibly shaken during a press conference, said:

“Diogo was more than a player to us. He was a brother, a friend, and a fighter. The pain we feel is indescribable. Elon’s gesture was completely unexpected — but it means a lot in these dark hours.”

The Tesla vehicles are reported to be limited-edition models of the Tesla Model S Plaid, customized with the Liverpool crest and Diogo Jota’s signature etched into the interior dashboard. Deliveries are expected to begin within the next two weeks.

Musk also revealed that a special AI feature in the vehicles will play audio of Jota’s greatest goals and career highlights when activated, calling it “a tribute to legacy through technology.”

Reactions have been mixed across the football community. While many praised the gesture as meaningful and generous, others questioned whether the move was appropriate or overly extravagant. Still, the overwhelming response on social media was one of gratitude and admiration.

“Say what you want about Elon Musk, but this is a powerful, emotional move. Respect,” tweeted former Liverpool striker Michael Owen.

In Portugal, national team captain Bruno Fernandes also commented, saying:

“We’ve lost a brother. The world mourns, but knowing his name lives on — even in ways like this — brings a strange kind of comfort.”

 

The Premier League has confirmed there will be a minute of silence before all weekend fixtures, and Liverpool FC plans to unveil a memorial banner at Anfield during their next home match.

As tributes continue, the world waits to see how the club — and the game — will move forward after losing one of its brightest stars. Musk, in his closing statement, simply wrote:

“Rest in power, Diogo. You’ll never walk alone.”