Jorge Messi, Father of Lionel Messi, Passes Away at 68

The Argentine Football Association has announced the death of Jorge Messi, the father of renowned footballer Lionel Messi, at the age of 68. This announcement follows a family statement from June 18, during the World Cup, which shared that Jorge was facing health challenges and receiving intensive medical care.

Two days before this statement, Lionel Messi displayed visible emotion after scoring the first goal in his hat-trick for Argentina in a 3-0 victory over Algeria. Post-match, he attributed his emotions to dealing with ‘some difficult, complicated days.’

Jorge Messi was pivotal in Lionel’s career, acting as both his agent and business manager. Together, they maintained a strong professional relationship, characterized by unity in decision-making, despite other advisors coming and going over the years.

The Argentine Football Association, under President Claudio Tapia, expressed its condolences, stating, ‘The Argentine Football Association mourns with sadness and deep sorrow the passing of Jorge Messi, father of our captain and icon, Lionel Messi.’ It also announced a minute’s silence at all matches in Argentina over the weekend. They extended their support to the Messi family, offering heartfelt and affectionate thoughts.

Meanwhile, clubs like Barcelona and Real Madrid, among others, paid their tributes to Jorge.

Jorge Messi had been Lionel’s agent and business manager since the beginning. Before Lionel’s football career flourished, Jorge worked as a supervisor in a metal factory in Rosario and assisted in coaching at Grandoli soccer club. This is where Lionel first showcased his talent before transitioning to Newell’s Old Boys, Rosario’s leading club.

El Club Atlético Newell’s Old Boys expressed profound sorrow at Jorge’s passing, recognizing him as a devoted fan and father of Lionel Messi. They highlighted his role as a foundational support for Lionel.

At 13, Lionel Messi required treatment for a growth-related hormone condition, which was costly. Jorge and Lionel traveled to Spain in pursuit of an opportunity, leading to a trial at Barcelona in September 2000. Although a deal was initially off the table, a memorable contract written on a napkin in December that year, facilitated by Barcelona director Charly Rexach, changed the course of Lionel’s career.

After joining Barcelona and debuting with the first team in 2004, Lionel Messi went on to become one of the greatest footballers in history. His journey included a move to Paris Saint-Germain in 2021 due to Barcelona’s financial struggles, followed by a subsequent transfer to Inter Miami, where he serves as captain.