Jorge Messi, Father and Agent of Soccer Star Lionel Messi, Passes Away

Jorge Messi, the father of renowned soccer player Lionel Messi, has died at the age of 68. His passing was confirmed by multiple sources, including CONMEBOL, the Argentina National Football Team, and a statement from his family provided to Reuters. His death marks a moment of deep sorrow for those who knew him.

CONMEBOL expressed its condolences in a statement translated from Spanish, saying, “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.”

The Argentina National Football Team offered its support through a brief statement on social media, “Sending our deepest strength to Leo Messi and his family. We’re with you during this difficult time and sending you our warmest embrace.”

Lionel Messi and the Argentina team had recently achieved a second-place finish in this year’s World Cup. Jorge Messi’s support throughout Lionel’s career was recognized by Newell’s Old Boys, where Lionel first played in Argentina. “Jorge was the pillar of strength and the person who, along with his wife, Celia Cuccittini, supported the career of the greatest player of all time with vision, rigor, and affection,” the club stated. “His constant support and behind-the-scenes leadership were fundamental in backing every step of Lionel’s journey, from his beginnings in the Falklands to the pinnacle of world football glory.”

In 2000, Jorge Messi played a central role in taking his son to Barcelona for his first tryout. He then moved to Spain with Lionel when he was signed by the club, marking the start of Lionel’s illustrious career. Jorge became his agent, guiding him through contracts with major teams like Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, and currently, MLS team Inter Miami.

During Argentina’s match against Algeria in this year’s World Cup, Lionel Messi was visibly emotional after scoring a hat trick. In a press conference, he mentioned the emotional response was due to “something unrelated to football,” without further explanation. A family statement later addressed Jorge’s health, noting he was “going through a health-related situation” and was “under medical care, recovering and evolving favorably.” The family also addressed “rumors and speculations” around Jorge’s health, stressing it was a private matter.

Lionel Messi’s team, Inter Miami, was slated to play Monterrey in the Leagues Cup on Saturday night. It remained uncertain whether Messi would participate following his father’s passing.