Lionel Messi's father, Jorge Messi, dies at 68

Lionel Messi’s father, Jorge Messi, has died at the age of 68, two months after his family revealed that he had been hospitalised over an ongoing health condition.

Jorge reportedly died at a hospital in Rosario, Argentina, close to the family home, at about 10 p.m. local time on Friday, August 7.

The death was first reported by Argentine media and was subsequently confirmed by Newell’s Old Boys, the club where Messi began his football career.

In a statement, the club described Jorge as a devoted supporter and the father of Argentina captain Lionel Messi, praising his role in his son’s development and career.

The club said Jorge was instrumental in supporting Messi from his early days at the club’s Malvinas academy through to his rise to the top of world football.

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“His constant companionship and behind-the-scenes leadership were essential in backing every step of Lionel, from his beginnings at Malvinas to the pinnacle of world football glory,” the club said.

Newell’s Old Boys extended its condolences to Messi, his mother Celia Cuccittini, his siblings Rodrigo, Matías and María Sol, and other family members.

The cause of Jorge’s death has not been disclosed.

Jorge was a central figure in Messi’s career and served as his agent and business manager, helping oversee his professional affairs and commercial interests.

Health concerns

Jorge’s health problems became public earlier this year after reports emerged that he had suffered a medical episode at his home in January and was subsequently hospitalised.

Messi had also spoken publicly about a difficult period affecting his family after appearing emotional following Argentina’s World Cup match against Algeria.

After scoring a hat-trick, Messi was asked about his emotions and said: “No, honestly it’s something completely unrelated to sports. It’s been a few difficult days, complicated.”

Argentine journalist Eduardo Feinmann later reported that Messi’s father was experiencing health problems and had been dealing with them for several months.

South American football governing body CONMEBOL also paid tribute to Jorge Messi.

“CONMEBOL deeply regrets the passing of Jorge Messi, father of Argentine footballer Lionel Messi. We accompany Lionel, his family, friends, and loved ones with respect and affection in this moment of profound grief. May he rest in peace,” it said.