Lionel Messi’s father, Jorge, dies aged 68
Jorge Messi, father of Lionel Messi, has died at the age of 68 after suffering from a serious illness.
According to ESPN Argentina, Jorge died at 9:47 pm on Friday night at a clinic in Rosario.
A statement released by Messi’s boyhood club, Newell’s Old Boys, read: ‘A recognised Leproso supporter, businessman, and father of the captain of the Argentine national team, Lionel Andes Messi.
‘Jorge was the support and the person who, with vision, rigor, and affection, guided the career of the greatest player of all time alongside his wife, Celia Cuccittini.
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‘His constant support and leadership behind the scenes were fundamental in backing every step Lionel took, from his beginnings at Malvinas to the pinnacle of world football.
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‘Thank you for teaching him to love these colours.
‘The Board of Directors, members, athletes, and the entire Leproso family embrace Celia, Lionel, Rodrigo, Matías, and María Sol and all their loved ones and close ones with affection during this difficult time.’
Jorge did not travel to watch his son during Argentina’s World Cup campaign earlier this summer due to his health.
After scoring in Argentina’s opening World Cup game against Algeria, Messi was visibly upset and later explained that emotional reaction was due to matters away from the pitch.
‘It’s for a reason completely unrelated to sports, I’ve had some difficult, complicated days. I’m grateful to the entire team, as always, for being by my side,’ Messi said.
Messi’s family were also forced to deny reports that Jorge had died during the tournament.
‘The Messi family wishes to inform you that Jorge Messi is currently dealing with health problems. He is currently under medical supervision and is recovering well,’ a statement read on June 18.
‘Given the reports, rumours and speculation that have been circulating in recent hours, the family wishes to express its deep concern about the lack of sensitivity, respect and discretion with which some people have treated a strictly private family matter.’
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Jorge Messi was born in Rosario and worked for years in a metalworking factory before dedicating himself to his son’s football career. Over time, he became his son’s legal representative, administrator, and leading advisor.
Jorge made one of the most important decisions in modern football history as he travelled with his son to Barcelona.
That decision changed the lives of the Messi family forever and also the history of football. Lionel arrived at Barca’s La Masia academy age 13 and he went on to become one of the greatest players of all time.
Jorge always maintained a low profile, choosing to stay away from the cameras and media exposure, but played a pivotal role in his son’s contract negotiations and commercial deals behind the scenes.
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Article source: https://metro.co.uk/2026/08/08/lionel-messis-father-jorge-dies-aged-68-29329711/