Jorge Messi, father of Lionel Messi, has died at the age of 68 after suffering from a serious illness.
Jorge died at 9:47 pm on Friday night at a clinic in his hometown of Rosario.
After the World Cup, Messi returned to Rosario to be with his father as he was unable to attend his son’s matches during the tournament due to his health.
Jorge’s last public appearance was in November 2025 when he and his wife, Celia Cuccittini, watched their son score twice in Inter Miami’s 4-0 win over Nashville.
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A statement released by Messi’s boyhood club, Newell’s Old Boys, read: ‘A recognised Leproso supporter, businessman, and father of the captain of the Argentine national team, Lionel Andes Messi.
‘Jorge was the support and the person who, with vision, rigor, and affection, guided the career of the greatest player of all time alongside his wife, Celia Cuccittini.
‘His constant support and leadership behind the scenes were fundamental in backing every step Lionel took, from his beginnings at Malvinas to the pinnacle of world football.
‘Thank you for teaching him to love these colours.
‘The Board of Directors, members, athletes, and the entire Leproso family embrace Celia, Lionel, Rodrigo, Matías, and María Sol and all their loved ones and close ones with affection during this difficult time.’
After scoring in Argentina’s opening World Cup game against Algeria, Messi was visibly upset and later explained that emotional reaction was due to matters away from the pitch.
‘It’s for a reason completely unrelated to sports, I’ve had some difficult, complicated days. I’m grateful to the entire team, as always, for being by my side,’ Messi said.
During the World Cup, Messi’s family were also forced to deny reports that Jorge had died.
‘The Messi family wishes to inform you that Jorge Messi is currently dealing with health problems. He is currently under medical supervision and is recovering well,’ a statement read on June 18.
‘Given the reports, rumours and speculation that have been circulating in recent hours, the family wishes to express its deep concern about the lack of sensitivity, respect and discretion with which some people have treated a strictly private family matter.’
Jorge Messi was born in Rosario and worked for years in a metalworking factory before dedicating himself to his son’s football career. Over time, he became his son’s legal representative, administrator, and leading advisor.
Jorge made one of the most important decisions in modern football history as he travelled with his son to Barcelona after a deal was famously written out on a napkin in December 2000.
That decision changed the lives of the Messi family and also the history of football. Lionel arrived at Barca’s La Masia academy age 13 and he went on to become one of the greatest players of all time.
Jorge always maintained a low profile, choosing to stay away from the cameras and media exposure, but played a pivotal role in his son’s contract negotiations and commercial deals behind the scenes.
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