Messi’s father Jorge dies aged 68 after illness

Lionel Messi's father Jorge has passed away at the age of 68 after a prolonged illness. Jorge, who began serving as Lionel's agent when the young footballer was just 14 years old, is reported to have died in a hospital in Rosario, Argentina. The news of his father's death only became widely known during the 2022 World Cup, when speculation about Jorge's health arose.

The Messi family had previously mentioned that he was facing a health-related issue, but did not specify the nature of the condition. Jorge had played a crucial role in Lionel's development, helping him become one of the greatest footballers of all time. He was present in Qatar to witness Lionel's quest to lead Argentina to their third World Cup title in 2022.

Lionel Messi, now 39, is also a four-time Champions League winner and a record eight-time Ballon d'Or winner. Jorge's support extended to Lionel's local team, Newell's Old Boys, where the young Lionel joined at the age of seven. After Lionel's move to Spain in 2001 to join Barcelona, Jorge stayed with him in Barcelona, becoming a constant companion and behind-the-scenes leader in his son's career.

The Messi family released a statement expressing gratitude for Jorge's support and guidance, highlighting his pivotal role in Lionel's journey from the Malvinas youth academy to global football glory. Newell's Old Boys paid tribute to Jorge's vision, rigor, and affection, acknowledging his essential support from Lionel's early years to his pinnacle of success.

Barcelona also honored Jorge's commitment to the club and his son's football career. The Argentine Football Association mourned the loss of Jorge, expressing solidarity with the family during this difficult time. The family released a statement expressing discomfort with the lack of sensitivity in some media coverage about a private family matter.