Jorge Messi, the father and long-time representative of football icon Lionel Messi, has died at 68 following a prolonged battle with illness. He passed away early Saturday morning at a hospital in his native Rosario, Argentina.
Known as a central figure in his son’s professional journey, Jorge acted as Lionel’s agent starting when the forward was just 14 years old. He relocated to Spain with a young Lionel in 2001 to facilitate his career at Barcelona, remaining by his side while the rest of the family eventually returned home. Jorge witnessed Lionel secure numerous accolades, including a record eight Ballon d’Or titles and the 2022 World Cup victory in Qatar.
Although the family had previously confirmed he was managing a health issue during the summer, they kept the specific diagnosis private. The loss has triggered an outpouring of tributes from the football community, including a statement from Newell’s Old Boys, the club both father and son supported, which honored Jorge’s fundamental role in shaping Lionel’s path to greatness. The Argentine Football Association also shared their condolences, offering support to the Messi family during this period of mourning.
