Lionel Messi bids farewell to his late father in Argentina

Lionel Messi returned to his native Argentina to attend a private farewell ceremony for his father, Jorge Messi, who passed away at the age of 68. The intimate gathering took place on Sunday in a cemetery in Pérez, a town near Rosario, where the global football icon was born.

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He has given so much joy to this country, now it's our turn to give some back, to console him.

Jorge Messi, who had been his son's emotional pillar, football supporter, and agent since childhood, died on Friday night. Lionel Messi arrived in Rosario on Saturday evening via private jet from Miami with his wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, and their children. He immediately traveled to Pérez for the closely guarded ceremony.

By midday Sunday, signs suggested the ceremony had concluded, with private security personnel departing and several vehicles seen leaving the El Prado cemetery. Security was tight, with access strictly controlled, though glimpses of family members, including Messi, were visible through the gates. A No. 10 jersey and messages of support for the Messi family were displayed on the cemetery gates.

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It will surely do him good that we are here.

Fans and teammates offered their condolences and support. A 15-year-old fan, Lucas Blanco, traveled from a nearby neighborhood to hang a sign of encouragement, stating, "He has given so much joy to this country, now it's our turn to give some back, to console him." A couple, Carlos and Ana, drove 700 kilometers from Tres Arroyos to be present. Teammates, including Leandro Paredes and Rodrigo de Paul, also expressed their desire to be there for Messi during this period of grief.

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We wanted to accompany Leo at this moment.