Father of soccer star Lionel Messi dies at 68 in Argentina

BUENOS AIRES: Jorge ‌Messi, the father of soccer star Lionel Messi, died on Friday night at the age of 68 at a medical clinic in the Argentine city of Rosario after a long illness, the Argentine footballer’s family confirmed to Reuters.
Jorge spent his final months alternating between a medical center in Rosario and his home, accompanied by his wife Celia ‌and his ‌children Rodrigo, Matías and María ‌Sol, ⁠the family said.

Lionel Messi’s father Jorge has passed away at 68 years old.

Thoughts are with the whole Messi family, Lionel, those close to him in a very difficult time.

Rest in peace, Jorge. pic.twitter.com/FsSL60xxDx

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 8, 2026

Lionel ⁠Messi spent time with his father after the World Cup before rejoining his club, Inter Miami, for whom he returned to action a week ago.
Jorge closely accompanied his son Lionel throughout his career, beginning with ⁠his early years at Barcelona. ‌He acted as ‌a crucial pillar of support and, for several years, ‌served as his representative.
“I always needed ‌my dad’s approval, ever since I was a kid. After every match, I’d ask him what he thought of how I played,” the global ‌soccer star said previously.
During the World Cup, the captain of the ⁠Argentine ⁠national team experienced mixed emotions after scoring a hat trick in the opening match against Algeria, breaking down in tears while celebrating his first goal.
Later, at a press conference, Lionel explained that his tears were due to “something unrelated to football” after going through “a few difficult, complicated days.”
Days later, the family issued a statement regarding Jorge’s “health situation,” informing the public that he was undergoing medical treatment.