World of Football Bids Farewell to Jorge Messi, Father of Argentine Star

The global football community is mourning the loss of Jorge Messi, father of football icon Lionel Messi, who died at the age of 68 in Rosario, Santa Fe province. His passing followed complications from a prolonged illness.

The Argentine Football Association (AFA) issued a statement lamenting his death and declared that a minute of silence would be observed before all professional matches across all categories. Referees, players, and coaching staff will also wear black armbands as a mark of respect. "In this moment of immense sadness, the president Claudio Tapia, the members of the Executive Committee and the entire Argentine football family accompany Lionel, his siblings, family and loved ones, sending them their most sincere condolences and all their affection," the AFA statement read.

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In this moment of immense sadness, the president Claudio Tapia, the members of the Executive Committee and the entire Argentine football family accompany Lionel, his siblings, family and loved ones, sending them their most sincere condolences and all their affection.

CONMEBOL also extended its sympathies via its X account, stating, "We accompany with respect and affection Lionel, his family, friends and loved ones in this moment of deep pain. May he rest in peace." The organization shared a graphic expressing its condolences.

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We accompany with respect and affection Lionel, his family, friends and loved ones in this moment of deep pain. May he rest in peace.

Newell's Old Boys of Rosario, the club where Lionel Messi began his youth career, posted a farewell message on social media. The club acknowledged Jorge Messi as the "support and the person who underpinned with vision, rigor and affection the career of the best player of all time along with his wife, Celia Cuccittini." They added, "Thank you for teaching him to love these colors." The club also flew its flags at half-mast at its training ground.

Former Barcelona president Juan Gaspart, who was a friend of Jorge Messi, spoke in an interview with Radio Con Vos in Argentina. He described Jorge as indispensable to Lionel's career, stating, "I cannot conceive of 'Leo' Messi without his father, and therefore it is an important loss." Gaspart added, "Jorge put family thought above sporting thought. All Argentines should have a very fond memory of him."

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Was the support and the person who underpinned with vision, rigor and affection the career of the best player of all time along with his wife, Celia Cuccittini.

The Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) also joined the condolences on social media, sending "all our affection and love to Lionel and his loved ones in these moments of deep pain. Our embrace and our condolences. RIP."

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I cannot conceive of 'Leo' Messi without his father, and therefore it is an important loss.