Messi's father Jorge dies aged 68 after illness

Lionel Messi's father, Jorge, has passed away at the age of 68 after battling a long illness. The Argentina star's father and longtime agent, who first supported the football prodigy at the age of 14, died in a hospital in Rosario, Argentina early Saturday morning. Rumors about his health circulated during the World Cup this summer, but the Messi family confirmed his condition, stating he was dealing with a health-related issue without divulging the specifics.

Jorge played a pivotal role in shaping Lionel's illustrious career, helping him become one of the best players of all time. The Inter Miami forward, now 39, achieved numerous accolades, including being a four-time Ballon d'Or winner and winning the Champions League four times with Barcelona. Jorge was deeply involved in Lionel's early years, supporting his local team Newell's Old Boys, where Messi started playing at the age of seven.

Upon Lionel's move to Spain in 2001, Jorge remained in Barcelona as his father's constant companion and source of vision, rigor, and affection throughout his career. Both Inter Miami and Barcelona paid tribute to Jorge's unwavering support, while the Argentine Football Association expressed deep sorrow over his passing and offered their condolences to the family.