Lionel Messi’s Father Jorge Dies At 68 After A Long Illness

Jorge Messi, the father and longtime agent of football superstar Lionel Messi, has died at the age of 68.

Jorge passed away on Friday at a medical facility in Rosario, Argentina, following a prolonged illness.

His death was confirmed on Saturday, August 8, 2025.

The Messi family had kept details of his health condition private.

During the 2026 World Cup, however, Lionel revealed that he was going through a difficult personal period that had nothing to do with football.

“I have been through some difficult, complicated days,” he said.

“I am thankful for the support I have received from my teammates and the staff during this time.”

The family later confirmed that Jorge was receiving medical treatment and recovering from a health condition.

“The Messi family informs that Jorge Messi is currently going through a health situation,” they said.

“At this time, he is under medical supervision, recovering and progressing favourably within the condition he is experiencing.”

Jorge is survived by his wife, Celia, and their four children: Lionel, Rodrigo, Matías and María Sol.

Tributes have since been paid to Jorge, including by Newell’s Old Boys, the club where Lionel began his football journey.

The club described Jorge as an important figure who supported his son’s career from the early stages.

“Newell’s Old Boys mourn with profound pain and sorrow the passing of Jorge Messi,” the club said in a statement.

“He was a renowned [Newell’s] supporter, businessman and the father of the captain of the Argentina national team, Lionel Messi.

“Jorge was the support and the person who, together with his wife, Celia, strengthened the career of the greatest player of all time with vision, rigour and affection.

“His constant support and behind-the-scenes leadership were fundamental in supporting every step of Lionel’s journey.”

The South American Football Confederation, CONMEBOL also expressed its condolences to Lionel and the Messi family.

Jorge played a major role in Lionel’s career. He accompanied his son when the young Messi moved from Argentina to Spain to join Barcelona’s academy in 2000 and later became his agent, helping manage his professional career and business affairs.

Before becoming closely involved in football, Jorge worked in a steel factory in Argentina.

His support remained important throughout Lionel’s rise from a young player in Rosario to one of the most successful footballers in history.

Lionel has often spoken about the sacrifices he and his father made during the difficult early years in Barcelona.

Jorge remained a key figure as his son’s career developed through Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain and eventually Inter Miami.

The football world has also recognised Jorge’s influence behind the scenes.

His support helped Lionel navigate the major stages of his career, including his record-breaking achievements with Barcelona, his eight Ballon d’Or awards and Argentina’s 2022 World Cup triumph.

Jorge was unable to attend the 2026 World Cup in person because of his health condition, but Lionel was able to spend time with his family in Rosario after the tournament before returning to Inter Miami.

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