New Delhi, Aug 2026 : Jorge Messi, the father and longtime agent of Argentine football superstar Lionel Messi, has died at the age of 68 after a prolonged illness, the Messi family confirmed, bringing an end to the life of a man who played a pivotal role in shaping one of football’s greatest careers.
Jorge Messi died at a medical clinic in Rosario, Argentina, after undergoing treatment for an undisclosed health condition. His illness had been a private family matter, with the family previously appealing to the media and public to respect their privacy.
Lionel Messi had earlier acknowledged that his family was going through a difficult period without revealing details about his father’s condition. His emotional reaction after scoring against Algeria in June had drawn considerable attention.
Asked why he had been crying after the match, Messi said his emotions had “absolutely nothing to do with football” and that he had experienced “a few difficult days”. His comments prompted speculation about Jorge’s health, eventually leading the Messi family to issue a statement addressing reports surrounding his condition.
The family said Jorge was receiving medical care and recovering at the time, while expressing concern over what it described as insensitive speculation about a deeply personal matter. The family also thanked supporters for their affection and concern and requested that Jorge and his relatives be given privacy.
Jorge’s health problems appeared to affect Lionel Messi’s professional schedule as well. The Argentina captain reportedly travelled to be with his father and missed the Major League Soccer All-Star Game at the end of July. He subsequently returned to action for Inter Miami, but his absence highlighted the personal difficulties he was facing away from the football field.
Beyond being Messi’s father, Jorge was a central figure in his son’s extraordinary football journey. He guided Lionel from his early days in Rosario and remained closely involved as the youngster developed into an elite footballer.
Jorge accompanied his son during the crucial period when the family moved to Spain after Barcelona agreed to take the young Messi into its youth system. He later became Lionel’s agent and continued to manage important aspects of his son’s professional career and business affairs.
His influence extended across the different stages of Messi’s career, from his emergence at Barcelona to his rise as one of the most decorated and celebrated players in world football.
For Lionel Messi, Jorge was therefore not simply a representative managing contracts and professional matters, but also a constant presence throughout a journey that began in Rosario and ultimately reached the highest levels of international football.
News of Jorge Messi’s death has prompted tributes from the football community. Clubs and football organisations have recognised his contribution to his son’s career and offered condolences to the Messi family.
Jorge Messi’s legacy will remain closely connected to that of his son. While Lionel Messi became a global sporting icon through his performances on the pitch, Jorge remained one of the key figures behind the scenes, supporting and guiding him through the challenges of a remarkable career.
His death marks a deeply personal loss for Messi and his family at a time when the football legend continues to balance his professional commitments with family responsibilities.
