Lionel Messi misses Inter Miami game after father's death - ESPN

MIAMI — Lionel Messi missed Inter Miami's Leagues Cup match against Monterrey on Saturday after the death of his father, Jorge Messi.

Jorge Messi died Saturday at a hospital in the central Argentina city of Rosario. He was 68.

Photos showed Messi arriving by plane Saturday night in Rosario, where reports in Argentina said he will attend a private memorial service.

A minute's silence was held ahead of kickoff at Miami's Nu Stadium, with Jorge Messi's name shown on screens inside the stadium. Miami players were also wearing black armbands.

In the 10th minute, the same number Messi has worn on his jersey, fans chanted and unveiled flags in support of the Miami captain, including one that read «Fuerza [stay strong] Leo.»

Miami midfielder Rodrigo De Paul, who captained the team Saturday, honored his club and international teammate after opening the scoring in the 32nd minute, when he took off his shirt to reveal a Messi No. 10 jersey.

Messi's longtime friend and teammate Luis Suárez, who will miss Saturday's game because of a suspension, also sent a message of support.

«Friend, I hug you and your family strongly,» he posted on Instagram. «Your dad, from above, will continue to watch you with pride like he did always. All my love in these difficult moments to the Messi Family. Rest in peace, Jorge.»

Miami paid its condolences earlier in the day, writing: «Our hearts are with our captain, Leo, and the entire Messi family.»

Messi featured in Inter Miami's first Leagues Cup match of the 2026 tournament, recording two goals and an assist in the 4-2 victory over Atlético de San Luis on Wednesday.

The Inter Miami captain recently led Argentina to the World Cup final while navigating the illness of his father. Messi cried after