Jorge Messi, the father and longtime agent of soccer icon Lionel Messi, has died at the age of 68. He passed away in the early hours of Saturday at a medical clinic in his hometown of Rosario, Argentina, following a prolonged illness whose details the family chose not to disclose.
The news was confirmed by the Messi family and echoed in statements from Newell’s Old Boys, the club where Lionel began his youth career, and the Argentine Football Association. Jorge had been dealing with health challenges that became public during the 2026 World Cup.
In mid-June, as Argentina competed in the tournament held across North America, the family released a brief statement noting that he was experiencing a health-related situation and receiving close medical attention.
Speculation about his condition had circulated earlier, but the family maintained privacy around the specifics.
Jorge Messi played a central role in shaping his son’s extraordinary career. A former steelworker and chemical technician who once played soccer himself at the youth level for Newell’s, he recognized Lionel’s talent early and supported the family’s relocation to Spain in 2001 so the then-13-year-old could join Barcelona’s academy.
While other family members eventually returned to Argentina, Jorge remained in Barcelona with his son, serving as his agent and trusted adviser through the heights of club success, multiple Ballon d’Or awards, the move to Paris Saint-Germain, and later the transition to Inter Miami in Major League Soccer.
Lionel has spoken in the past about seeking his father’s approval after matches, describing that feedback as a constant from childhood onward.
In recent months Jorge spent time alternating between the medical facility in Rosario and home, surrounded by his wife Celia Cuccittini and their other children, Rodrigo, Matías, and María Sol. Lionel visited him after Argentina’s run to the World Cup final in July before returning to club duties with Inter Miami. He is expected to travel back to Rosario for a private farewell.
Tributes have poured in from the soccer world. Newell’s Old Boys remembered Jorge as a dedicated supporter and the steady presence who, alongside Celia, guided “the career of the best player of all time” with vision and affection.
The Argentine Football Association expressed deep sorrow and announced a minute of silence at matches across the country. Other clubs and federations, including those connected to Lionel’s European and American chapters, offered condolences.
Jorge Messi’s quiet but decisive influence helped turn a gifted boy from Rosario into one of the greatest athletes the sport has known.
His passing leaves a profound absence for a family that has long remained tightly knit amid global fame.
