Jorge Messi, the father of soccer superstar Lionel Messi, died Saturday at a hospital in Rosario, Argentina. He was 68.
The cause of death was not immediately specified, but the Club Atlético Newell’s Old Boys, a Rosario-based club with ties to the Messi family, noted that he had undergone treatment in recent months for an unspecified illness. The club described him as "the pillar and the person who, with vision, rigor and affection, supported the career of the best player of all time, alongside his wife, Celia Cuccittini."
The South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) also extended its condolences to Lionel Messi.
Jorge Messi, a chemical technician by training, was instrumental in his son's journey from a young prodigy to a global icon. He served as Lionel's agent throughout his career, managing his contracts, business affairs, and image rights.
In the early 2000s, Jorge Messi accompanied a young Lionel to Barcelona for a trial that led to his entry into La Masia, the club's renowned youth academy. He was present for key career milestones, including contract negotiations with FC Barcelona, transfers to Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Miami, and managing his son's investments.
Lionel Messi has previously spoken about the sacrifices his father made. In a 2007 interview, he recalled difficult early days in Barcelona, where both he and his father experienced moments of sadness and uncertainty but ultimately chose to persevere.
In 2013, Jorge Messi, along with his son, faced accusations from a Spanish prosecutor regarding the alleged concealment of earnings from image rights. Jorge Messi subsequently paid over 5 million euros to address alleged back taxes and interest.
The president of Argentina's soccer federation, Claudio Tapia, paid tribute to Jorge Messi, recognizing him for raising a son of "values: humble, respectful, and deeply committed to others." The federation mandated a moment of silence and the wearing of black armbands at all Argentine soccer matches in his honor.