Lionel Messi’s Father Jorge Dies at 68
The football world is mourning the death of Jorge Messi, the father and longtime representative of Argentina superstar Lionel Messi, who passed away at the age of 68 in Rosario, Argentina.
Jorge died on Friday night, 7 August 2026, at a medical clinic in his hometown following a prolonged illness. His family confirmed his death, while details about his specific medical condition have not been publicly disclosed.
His health had become a concern in the months leading up to his death. In June, the Messi family confirmed that Jorge was receiving medical treatment and appealed to the media and public to respect the family’s privacy amid speculation about his condition.
Jorge was much more than Lionel Messi’s father. He played a major role in the footballer’s development from childhood and became his representative, helping manage important aspects of his career as Messi progressed from a young player in Argentina to one of the biggest names in world football.
The father-son relationship remained particularly close throughout Messi’s career. During the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Messi was seen becoming emotional after scoring for Argentina, with reports later linking the difficult period to his father’s worsening health.
Jorge spent his final months moving between medical care and his home in Rosario, where he was surrounded by his wife, Celia, and their children Rodrigo, Matías and María Sol.
Tributes have since emerged from across the football community. Clubs and football organisations, including Newell’s Old Boys, the Argentine Football Association and Real Madrid, expressed condolences to Messi and his family following Jorge’s death.
Jorge Messi leaves behind a legacy closely connected to one of football’s greatest careers. His influence began long before Lionel became a global superstar and continued throughout much of the player’s professional journey.
