Lionel Messis father and long-time agent, Jorge Messi, has died at the age of 68 following a prolonged illness. Jorge passed away in hospital in his hometown of Rosario, Argentina, on Friday, with the family confirming the news on Saturday.The Messi family had kept details of his illness private before revealing during this summers World Cup that he was receiving medical treatment.After scoring in Argentinas opening match against Algeria, an emotional Messi admitted his celebration was about more than football.I have been through some difficult, complicated days, he said.I am thankful for the support I have received from my teammates and the staff during this time.A week later, the family released a statement confirming Jorges condition.The Messi family informs that Jorge Messi is currently going through a health situation.At this time, he is under medical supervision, recovering and progressing favourably within the condition he is experiencing.Messi legacy lives onJorge is survived by his wife, Celia, and their four children: Lionel, Rodrigo, Matias and Mara Sol.Messis boyhood club, Newells Old Boys, led the tributes.Newells Old Boys mourn with profound pain and sorrow the passing of Jorge Messi, the club said.He was a renowned Newells supporter, businessman and the father of the captain of the Argentina national team, Lionel Messi.Jorge was the support and the person who, together with his wife, Celia, strengthened the career of the greatest player of all time with vision, rigour and affection.His constant support and behind-the-scenes leadership were fundamental in supporting every step of Lionels journey.Jorge worked in a steel factory in Rosario before moving to Europe when Messi joined Barcelonas academy in 2000.He went on to oversee his sons career as his agent, guiding moves from Barcelona to Paris Saint-Germain and later Inter Miami, while helping manage one of the most successful careers in football history. Topics Lionel Messi Add us as a preferred source on Google If you enjoy reading this article, you can help support our independent football journalism by adding 101 Great Goals as a preferred source You Should Also Read Argentina: No pressure on Messi to play 2028 Copa America Mitch Fretton 7th August, 2026 Inter Miami vs Monterrey: Line-ups, stats and preview for Leagues Cup clash Mitch Fretton 7th August, 2026 WATCH: Messi strike compared to a Picasso as Inter Miami captain nets two stunners in Leagues Cup win Jon Fisher 6th August, 2026 Lionel Messi makes 80k donation to help with rebuild after Madrid fires Jon Fisher 4th August, 2026 MLS: Casemiro scores horror own goal as Messi returns for Inter Miami and Lewandowski opens account for Chicago Fire Cian Cheesbrough 2nd August, 2026 I only joined Inter Miami to play with Lionel Messi, says Casemiro Jon Fisher 31st July, 2026
