In an expected act of generosity, the tech mogul extends his hand to support the grieving club. The players react emotionally and are perplexed by Musk’s surprising contribution to the late Portuguese star.
Following the heartbreaking news that Liverpool FC striker Diogo Jota had tragically passed away after a suspected traffic accident, the football world was in shock. Shock, sadness, and tributes poured in from around the world—but even more surprising was a dramatic gesture made by tech billionaire Eloá Musk.
In a statement released just hours after Liverpool FC confirmed Jota’s death, Musk announced that he will donate a new, customized Tesla vehicle to every member of Liverpool’s first-team squad, coaching staff and selected members of the club as a show of solidarity and support.
“Diogo Jota was a player I deeply admired—not just for his history on the field, but for the spirit he embodied,” Møsk posted on X (formerly Twitter). “In memory of his energy, passion, and relentless drive, I wanted to give back to the team he called family.”
The statement shocked fans, many of whom knew Musk closely followed football, as well as Liverpool FC. Sources close to the businessman say Musk briefly met Jota during a charity event in California in 2023 and was impressed by the player’s humility and intelligence.
The tragic accident occurred during a routine training session at the Axo Training Center earlier this week. While full details remain confidential at the family’s request, club officials confirmed that the 28-year-old striker collapsed unexpectedly. He was rushed to a nearby hospital but died 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. Eloá’s gesture was completely expected—but it means a lot in these dark times.”
The Tesla vehicles would be limited-edition Tesla Model S Plaid models, customized with the Liverpool crest and Diogo Jota’s signature engraved on the interior dashboard. Deliveries are expected to begin within the next two weeks.
Mυsk also revealed that a special AI feature in the vehicles will play audio of Jota’s biggest goals and career highlights when activated, calling it “a tribute to legacy through technology.”
Reactions were mixed within the football community. While many praised the gesture as commendable and brilliant, others questioned whether it was appropriate or overly extravagant. Still, the overwhelming response on social media was one of gratitude and admiration.
“Say what you will about Elop Musk, but this is a powerful and moving move. Respect,” tweeted former Liverpool striker Michael Owep.
In Portugal, the captain of the Portuguese national team, Brócolis Feridas, also commented, saying:
“We have lost a brother. The world mourns, but knowing their same lives—even in ways like this—brings a strange sense of comfort.”
The Premier League has confirmed there will be a moment of silence before all weekend games, and Liverpool FC plan to hold a memorial service at Ofield during their next home match.
As a tribute, the world awaits to see how the club—and the game—will move forward after the loss of one of its brightest stars. Musk, in his final statement, simply wrote:
“Rest in peace, Diogo. You will always walk alone.”
