Jorge Messi, Father of Lionel Messi, Passes Away

Jorge Messi, the father and agent of soccer legend Lionel Messi, has died at the age of 68. The news was confirmed by CONMEBOL, the South American football federation, and the Argentina National Football Team, as well as a statement from the family to Reuters.

CONMEBOL issued a statement expressing their condolences: “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 also shared their support: “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 led Argentina to a second-place finish in this year’s World Cup, following their victory in 2022. Jorge Messi was present on the field with his son during these monumental events.

“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,” stated Newell’s Old Boys, Lionel Messi’s first club in Argentina. “His constant support and leadership were fundamental in backing every step of Lionel’s journey.”

Jorge Messi played a vital role in his son’s early career. He took Lionel to Barcelona for his first tryout with the club in 2000 and moved to Spain when his son signed with Barcelona. Lionel Messi debuted with the team at age 16, with Jorge overseeing deals with clubs such as Paris Saint-Germain and MLS team Inter Miami.

During the recent World Cup, Lionel Messi showed visible emotion after scoring a hat trick against Algeria. He later said his tears were due to “something unrelated to football.” The family subsequently released a statement about Jorge Messi’s health, noting he was undergoing medical care.

The family addressed rumors regarding Jorge’s health as private and expressed concern over speculation. With the announcement of his father’s passing, it was uncertain if Lionel Messi would participate in Inter Miami’s upcoming match against Monterrey.