Condolences, Lionel Messi's Father Left for Good
JAKARTA - The father of football superstar Lionel Messi, Jorge Messi, died on Friday (7/8) evening local time or Saturday WIB at a medical clinic in Rosario, Argentina.
According to Marca's report, Jorge breathed his last at the age of 68 after a long time undergoing treatment for the disease he suffered from.
In recent months, Jorge has been undergoing treatment alternately at a medical center in Rosario and his residence. He was accompanied by his wife, Celia, and his children, Rodrigo, Matias, and Maria Sol.
Lionel Messi is known to have spent time with his father after the World Cup before rejoining his club, Inter Miami. The captain of the Argentina national team also only returned to play with Inter Miami about a week ago.
Jorge has a big role in Lionel Messi's career journey. He has accompanied his son since he was still at Barcelona and has become one of the most important figures in the life of the megastar. For years, Jorge also acted as his son's agent.
Jorge's health condition was a matter of public concern when Lionel Messi was seen crying in the 2026 World Cup match. Messi cried while celebrating his first goal in Argentina's opening match against Algeria, when he scored a hat-trick in the match.
In a press conference after the match, Messi explained that his tears were not related to football. He admitted that he was going through "some difficult and complicated days".
A few days later, Messi's family released a statement regarding Jorge's health condition. They informed that the player's father was undergoing medical treatment.
Jorge's departure was a big loss for Lionel Messi, who during his long career journey received direct support from his father.
Lionel Messi's childhood club in Argentina, Newell's Old Boys, expressed their condolences for the departure of the megastar's father via Instagram.
"Atletico Newell's Old Bovs bid farewell with deep sadness to Jorge Messi, who died at the age of 68 in the city of Rosario," the club said.