Chelsea players and staff have pledged to donate a portion of their Club World Cup prize money to the families of late footballers Diogo Jota and André Silva, following their tragic deaths in a car accident earlier this summer.
According to Sky Sports, Chelsea received £11.4 million from the tournament’s total £87 million prize pool. In a collective decision made alongside the club, the players have agreed to contribute part of that amount in support of the bereaved families.
“The overall value of each portion tallies more than $500k before it’s subjected to currency conversion costs from US dollars into UK pound sterling, alongside relevant employer costs, taxes and social security costs,” the Athletic said.
Diogo Jota, a key player for Liverpool, and his brother André Silva, who played for Portuguese club Penafiel, were killed in a car crash in Spain on July 3. The shocking news sent ripples through the football world, prompting tributes from clubs, players, and fans globally.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot recently commended the football community for its solidarity and support, noting the profound emotional toll the loss has had on both clubs and the broader football family.
As a mark of respect, tributes to the two Portuguese players are expected during the Premier League’s opening weekend fixtures.
The soccer world began paying tribute to the brothers following their tragic deaths in early July. Moments of silence were held at matches, including the Women’s EUROs and Club World Cup.
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Other tributes were seen at Oasis’ first reunion concert in Wales and by players around the world performing Jota’s video game celebration
Ahead of Friday’s Premier League opener against Bournemouth, Liverpool have announced It will dedicate the cover of its match-day program to Jota, who played 123 times for the club, and Silva. All players across the league will wear black arm bands this weekend and will take part in a moment of silence.
Jota will also be immortalized with a statue at Anfield, Liverpool’s home ground, and players will wear a “Forever 20” emblem on their jerseys this season in reference to his number. The No. 20 has also been permanently retired by the club, the first time that honor has been bestowed on a former player in club history.