Jorge Messi, the father of the Argentine football star Lionel Messi and his long-time mentor and coach, has died from a long-term illness in Argentina. Jorge Messi died at the age of 68 in Argentina after battling a prolonged illness.
His death has triggered a wave of sympathy from clubs, media, athletes, officials, and fans. Jorge Messi was in hospital for several weeks before his condition worsened, and he had been treated by medical staff. Messi's boyhood club Newell's Old Boys also announced his death.
Jorge Messi was so much more than the father of one of football’s greatest players. He was at the forefront of Messi’s career straight from an early age and was one of the most influential people in his son’s career. He served as Lionel’s agent, advisor, and confidant for more than two decades and made decisions that would prove to be the game-changing turning point for his player at an early age.
The Man Behind Messi’s Rise
Jorge Messi was born in Rosario, Argentina and worked in the steel industry before getting involved in his son’s football career when Lionel developed as a kid. He helped the young Messi to get into Spain and Barcelona to develop his skills.
Jorge was there the whole time in Lionel Messi’s career. He was involved with all the contracts, sponsorship deals and transfers at Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain and later Inter Miami. Lionel Messi was able to concentrate on football and be successful because he knew business and he was very professional.
Health concerns during the 2026 FIFA World Cup
Jorge Messi’s health issues became public during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Messi’s family had previously said he was in treatment for an undisclosed medical condition and requested that his health be kept private. Lionel Messi became emotional when he scored in Argentina’s group-stage match against Algeria but later said that the tears were unrelated to football and were related to family problems.
Argentina reached the 2026 FIFA World Cup final under Messi’s leadership, but they only finished as runners-up with a narrow loss to Spain. For much of the tournament, Jorge Messi’s health was under discussion, and it soon became clear that his health issues were affecting the Argentine captain.
Tributes Pour In
Following the announcement of Jorge Messi’s death, the Argentine Football Association, CONMEBOL, and many big clubs paid tribute to him on social media, recognising the enormous influence Jorge had on Lionel Messi’s life and career.
Lionel Messi’s accomplishments on the pitch have inspired millions, but many think that his achievements would not have been possible without the dedication, sacrifice and guidance of his father. Jorge Messi leaves behind a lasting legacy as the man who helped nurture one of football’s greatest icons.
His death does close an important chapter in the Messi family story, but his impact on Lionel Messi and the world of football will be remembered for generations.
