BUENOS AIRES, Argentina — Jorge Messi, the father of football superstar Lionel Messi, died on Friday night at the age of 68 at a medical clinic in Rosario, Argentina, after a long illness, the Messi family confirmed to Reuters. Jorge had remained close to his son throughout Lionel Messi’s football career and had also served as his representative for several years.
- Jorge Messi died aged 68 at a medical clinic in Rosario after a long illness.
- Lionel Messi is expected to travel from Miami to Rosario for his father’s private wake.
- Jorge was a longstanding source of support for Messi and represented him for several years.
- The Argentine Football Association announced tributes at matches across the country’s divisions.
Jorge Messi dies in Rosario
Jorge Messi spent his final months between a medical centre in Rosario and his home, where he was accompanied by his wife Celia and their children Rodrigo, Matias and Maria Sol, according to the family.
The family had previously informed the public about Jorge’s health situation and said that he was undergoing medical treatment. His death in Rosario marks the loss of a figure who remained closely connected to Lionel Messi throughout the Argentine star’s rise to the top of world football.
Lionel Messi expected to return to Rosario
Lionel Messi spent time with his father following the World Cup in North America before returning to his club, Inter Miami. He returned to action for the Major League Soccer side a week before his father’s death.
According to a source close to the Messi family, Lionel was expected to arrive in Rosario at around 8 p.m. local time on Saturday on a private flight from Miami. He was expected to attend a private wake for his father.
Jorge’s remains are expected to be transferred on Sunday to El Prado private cemetery in Perez, a town near Rosario, according to local media reports.
Jorge Messi played a major role in Lionel’s career
Jorge closely accompanied Lionel from the early stages of his football journey, including his formative years at Barcelona. He later became his son’s representative for several years, making him an important figure behind the scenes as Lionel developed into one of football’s biggest stars.
Lionel Messi has previously spoken about the importance of his father’s opinion. Reflecting on their relationship, the 39-year-old footballer said:
“I always needed my dad’s approval, ever since I was a kid. After every match, I’d ask him what he thought of how I played.”
The comment reflected the close influence Jorge had on his son’s football life, extending beyond his formal role as a representative.
Messi’s emotional moment during the World Cup
During the World Cup, Lionel Messi experienced an emotional moment after scoring a hat-trick in Argentina’s opening match against Algeria. He broke down in tears while celebrating his first goal.
At a later press conference, Messi said the tears were connected to circumstances away from football. He described having gone through “a few difficult, complicated days” and said the reason was “something unrelated to football.”
Days afterward, the family publicly referred to Jorge’s health situation and confirmed that he was receiving medical treatment.
Football world sends condolences
Tributes followed Jorge Messi’s death from several football institutions and clubs connected to Lionel Messi’s career. Real Madrid and Messi’s boyhood club Newell’s Old Boys were among those expressing condolences, while the Argentine Football Association also issued a message to the family.
The AFA announced that a minute’s silence would be observed at matches across all divisions in Argentina. Players, coaches and referees will also wear black armbands as a mark of respect.
“From here, we stand in solidarity with the entire family during this difficult time and send the most heartfelt, warm, and affectionate embrace. Strength to you all,” the Argentine FA said.
Barcelona remembers Jorge Messi
Barcelona, where Lionel Messi spent most of his senior career from his debut in 2004 until his departure in 2021, also paid tribute to Jorge Messi.
The Spanish club acknowledged Jorge’s role in entrusting Barcelona with the early stages and most successful years of his son’s football career.
“FC Barcelona thanks Jorge Messi for his commitment to our club, for entrusting us with the beginning and the most glorious years of his son Leo’s football career.”
The tribute highlighted Jorge’s connection with the club during the period in which Lionel Messi established himself as one of Barcelona’s most important players.
Inter Miami scheduled to play Monterrey
Inter Miami, Lionel Messi’s current club, were scheduled to face Monterrey in the Leagues Cup group stage later on Saturday. The club had not immediately responded to a request for comment, according to the supplied report.
Messi’s return to Rosario comes as the football community across Argentina prepares to honour his father, whose involvement in his son’s career began long before Lionel became an international football icon.
Frequently Asked Questions
How old was Jorge Messi when he died?
Jorge Messi was 68 years old when he died on Friday night in Rosario, Argentina, according to the Messi family.
Where will Jorge Messi’s remains be taken?
According to local media reports cited in the supplied material, Jorge Messi’s remains will be transferred on Sunday to El Prado private cemetery in Perez, a town near Rosario.
