Harry Archie
Jorge Messi, the father of Argentina football superstar Lionel Messi, has died at the age of 68.
Reports from Argentina said Jorge died on Friday night at a hospital in the city of Rosario, where he had been receiving treatment after battling illness for some time.
Jorge was not only Lionel Messi’s father but also served as his representative and played an important role in his son’s football career.
He stayed by Messi’s side from his childhood in Rosario and later helped him move to Barcelona, Spain, to pursue his football career.
As Messi began to make a name for himself at Barcelona, Jorge managed his son’s football affairs and was also involved in some of his business matters.
Jorge remained close to his son throughout his life, particularly during major changes in Messi’s personal life and football career.
During the 2026 World Cup, Messi showed signs of emotional distress after scoring for Argentina in their opening match.
He later said he was going through difficult days, while his family confirmed that his father had been battling health problems.
Jorge Messi is survived by his wife, Celia, and their children, Lionel, Rodrigo, Matías and María Sol.
Newell’s Old Boys, the club where Messi began playing football as a child, was among those that expressed condolences to the Messi family following Jorge’s death.
The club described Jorge as someone who played an important role in supporting Lionel Messi and helping him achieve success in his football career.
Jorge Messi’s death comes at a time when his son Lionel continues to be regarded as one of the most prominent footballers in the world.
