Father of Football Star Lionel Messi, Jorge Messi, Dies at 68
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- Jorge Messi, father of football superstar Lionel Messi, died at age 68 in Rosario, Argentina, after a lengthy illness.
- He played a significant role in his son's career, acting as his agent and providing constant support since his early days at Barcelona.
- Lionel Messi's boyhood club, Newell's Old Boys, expressed condolences, remembering Jorge as a key figure in the player's life.
Jorge Messi, the father of football icon Lionel Messi, passed away at the age of 68 in Rosario, Argentina, on Friday, August 7, local time. His death followed a prolonged period of treatment for an illness, during which he was attended by his wife, Celia, and his children.
The father of football superstar Lionel Messi, Jorge Messi, passed away late Friday, August 7, local time, at a medical clinic in Rosario, Argentina.
Messi's father had been receiving alternating treatment at a medical center in Rosario and at home in recent months. His health situation had previously drawn public attention when Lionel Messi was seen crying during a 2026 World Cup match, later explaining he was experiencing "a few difficult and complicated days." His family had released a statement at the time confirming he was undergoing medical treatment.
Jorge passed away at the age of 68 after undergoing lengthy treatment for an illness.
Jorge Messi was a pivotal figure throughout his son's illustrious career. He accompanied Lionel from his early days at Barcelona and served as his agent for many years. His unwavering support was a constant presence, culminating in his son's journey to global football stardom. Lionel Messi had spent time with his father after the World Cup before rejoining his club, Inter Miami.
He was accompanied by his wife, Celia, and children, Rodrigo, Matias, and Maria Sol.
Lionel Messi's childhood club, Newell's Old Boys, offered their sympathies via Instagram. "Club Atletico Newell's Old Boys bids farewell with deep sorrow and grief to Jorge Messi, who passed away at the age of 68 in the city of Rosario," the statement read. His passing represents a profound loss for Lionel Messi, who consistently received his father's direct support throughout his career.
He admitted he was going through "a few difficult and complicated days."
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Originally published by Tempo. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.
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