Lionel Messi's Father and Agent, Jorge Messi, Dies at 68

Jorge Messi, the father and longtime agent of football icon Lionel Messi, has passed away at the age of 68. The news was confirmed on August 8, 2026, by Newell's Old Boys, the Rosario-based club where Lionel Messi began his legendary career.

Argentinian media reported that Jorge Messi died on Friday in a hospital in Rosario. His presence was a constant in Lionel Messi's life and career, serving as his first coach and his sole guardian when the young prodigy moved to Barcelona. He later transitioned into the role of his son's agent, navigating the complexities of his global career.

Newell's Old Boys shared a tribute on social media, stating, "His constant companionship and behind-the-scenes leadership were essential in backing every step of Lionel." The club acknowledged his pivotal role in supporting his son's journey.

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His constant companionship and behind-the-scenes leadership were essential in backing every step of Lionel.

Lionel Messi himself has spoken about his father's profound influence. In a 2022 interview with DirecTV Sports, he remarked, "My father helped me enormously. He is very critical of me. That made me always want to push myself further." This critical yet supportive dynamic was key to Messi's relentless pursuit of excellence.

Family members had previously appealed for privacy regarding Jorge Messi's health during the recent World Cup, amid persistent rumors about his well-being. His passing marks the end of a significant chapter for the Messi family and the football world.

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My father helped me enormously. He is very critical of me. That made me always want to push myself further.