Jorge Messi, the father of football superstar Lionel Messi, has died at the age of 68. His death was confirmed by his son's former club, Newell's Old Boys, in Argentina.
Jorge Messi passed away on Friday evening at a hospital in Rosario, near the family's home. Newell's Old Boys issued a statement mourning the loss of Jorge, describing him as a "pillar" who supported his son's career with "vision, rigor, and affection." The club acknowledged his constant companionship and behind-the-scenes leadership as essential to Lionel's journey from his early days to global football icon.
CONMEBOL, the South American football governing body, also expressed its condolences, stating, "CONMEBOL deeply regrets the passing of Jorge Messi, father of Argentine footballer Lionel Messi. We accompany Lionel, his family, friends, and loved ones with respect and affection in this moment of profound grief."
No specific cause of death has been officially revealed, but Jorge Messi had been dealing with an unspecified health issue in recent months, which had led to hospitalizations. Lionel Messi had previously alluded to his father's health struggles, notably in a rare public display of emotion where he was seen crying on the pitch during the World Cup. He later explained that it was due to a difficult and complicated few days unrelated to sports.
Reports indicated that Jorge Messi had suffered a "medical episode" at his home in January and was subsequently hospitalized, undergoing cardiovascular and neurological tests. The family had largely kept his health issues private.
Jorge Messi was not only a devoted father but also a key figure in his son's professional life, serving as his agent and business manager. He oversaw Lionel's extensive career, from his early beginnings at Newell's Old Boys and Barcelona, through his transfers to Paris Saint-Germain, and his current move to Inter Miami in Major League Soccer. He was also a prominent presence during significant off-field challenges, including the tax fraud case in 2016, where both he and his son were convicted of tax offenses.
Born in Rosario, Jorge Messi worked in a steel factory before meeting his wife, Celia Cuccittini. Together, they had four children: Rodrigo, Matías, Lionel, and María Sol. Jorge remained with Celia until his death. The family maintained ties to both Rosario and Miami, where Lionel Messi currently plays.