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| Messi and his father |
Jorge Messi, the father and longtime representative of football superstar Lionel Messi, has died at the age of 68.
Jorge died on Friday night at a medical clinic in Rosario, Argentina, where he had been receiving treatment for a prolonged illness. Reports said he had also spent time at home with his family during his final months.
His death marks a major personal loss for Lionel Messi, whose father played an important role in both his life and his extraordinary football career.
Jorge was more than Messi’s father. He served as his representative and was closely involved in the management of his son’s professional career and business affairs.
He was instrumental during Messi’s early years, including the move from Argentina to Spain when the young footballer joined Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy. Jorge continued to advise and represent his son as Messi developed into one of the most successful footballers in history.
Jorge’s influence extended beyond football contracts. He was involved in managing Messi’s image rights, investments and other business interests as his son’s global profile continued to grow.
The news of Jorge’s declining health had already attracted attention during the 2026 World Cup. Messi and his family had previously asked the media to respect their privacy while Jorge underwent medical treatment for an undisclosed illness.
During the tournament, Messi displayed visible emotion on several occasions. Reports later connected some of those emotional moments to the difficult situation surrounding his father’s health.
Tributes have since begun to emerge from the football community. Newell’s Old Boys, the Rosario club where Lionel Messi began his youth football journey, expressed condolences following Jorge’s death. CONMEBOL also paid tribute to him and recognised his influence on Lionel’s career.
Jorge Messi leaves behind his wife, Celia, and their children, including Lionel, Rodrigo, Matías and María Sol.
As of the time of publication, details concerning Jorge Messi’s funeral and burial arrangements had not been officially announced.
His death brings to an end the life of a man who remained one of the most important figures behind Lionel Messi’s journey from a young footballer in Rosario to one of the greatest players the sport has ever produced.
Source: Punch Newspapers, with additional reporting from Reuters and AP.