Lionel Messi’s father Jorge dies aged 68 after long illness

Lionel Messi is mourning the death of his father, Jorge Messi, who has died aged 68 in his hometown of Rosario, Argentina.

Jorge Messi had been receiving medical treatment in Rosario after a long illness, according to reports. The family had previously asked for privacy while he was undergoing treatment and had not disclosed the nature of his condition.

A central figure in Lionel Messi’s life and career, Jorge acted as his son’s long-time agent and was closely involved in managing both his professional and business affairs. His influence stretched back to Messi’s childhood, when he coached him during his early years in football.

Jorge remained an important presence as Messi developed from a young player in Rosario into one of the most celebrated footballers in the world. He continued to play a significant role as his son progressed through youth football and eventually reached the international stage.

Messi’s roots in Rosario remained important throughout his career. He began playing football in the city and spent part of his early development with Newell’s Old Boys before moving to Spain as a teenager to continue his progress at Barcelona.

Jorge stayed closely involved as Messi established himself as a global football icon, winning major honours at club and international level and becoming one of the most recognisable figures in the sport.

The seriousness of Jorge’s illness had already affected Messi during this year’s World Cup. Messi became emotional after scoring against Algeria and later indicated that his tears were related to difficult personal circumstances away from football.

Reports at the time said his father was receiving treatment for an undisclosed illness.

Tributes have followed Jorge Messi’s death from across the football community. Newell’s Old Boys, the club where Lionel began his football journey, described Jorge as an important figure in the player’s life and extended its condolences to the Messi family.

The Argentine Football Association has also mourned his passing.

Messi did not play for Inter Miami in their Leagues Cup match against Monterrey on Saturday after learning of his father’s death. He travelled to Argentina to attend the funeral.

Jorge Messi’s death brings a deeply personal loss for the Argentina captain and his family. While he was known publicly as the father of one of football’s greatest players, his role in Lionel’s career extended far beyond that of a parent.

From coaching his son in Rosario to acting as his agent and helping oversee his affairs, Jorge was a constant presence throughout Messi’s journey. He supported that rise from a young footballer in Argentina, through his move to Barcelona, and on to his status as a world champion and global sporting icon.