Jorge Messi, the father of football icon Lionel Messi, has died at the age of 68 after a long illness.
The family confirmed that Jorge passed away on Friday night at a medical clinic in Rosario, Argentina. He had been battling health issues for several months and spent his final period alternating between hospital care and home, supported by his wife Celia and children.
Lionel Messi had spent time with his father after the 2026 World Cup before returning to Inter Miami. Jorge played a central role throughout his son’s career, serving as his agent and business manager for many years and remaining a constant source of support from Lionel’s early days at Newell’s Old Boys through to global stardom.
The Argentine Football Association expressed deep sorrow over the loss and announced that a minute’s silence will be observed at matches across Argentina this weekend. Newell’s Old Boys, Lionel’s boyhood club, also paid tribute, describing Jorge as a pillar who supported the career of the greatest player of all time with vision, rigor, and affection.
Tributes have poured in from across the football world, including from CONMEBOL and former clubs associated with Lionel Messi.
Jorge Messi leaves behind his wife Celia Cuccittini, sons Lionel, Rodrigo and Matías, daughter María Sol, and several grandchildren.
