Jorge Messi, the father and longtime agent of renowned soccer player Lionel Messi, has passed away at the age of 68. The news of his death was confirmed by the South American football federation, CONMEBOL, the Argentina National Football Team, and through a statement from the family to Reuters.
“CONMEBOL deeply regrets the passing of Jorge Messi, father of Argentine footballer Lionel Messi,” read the statement from the federation translated from Spanish on social media. “We accompany Lionel, his family, friends, and loved ones with respect and affection in this moment of profound grief. May he rest in peace.”
The Argentina National Football Team shared a message on social media expressing solidarity, “Sending our deepest strength to Leo Messi and his family. We’re with you during this difficult time and sending you our warmest embrace.”
Jorge Messi had witnessed his son lead Argentina to a World Cup victory in 2022 and to a second-place finish this year. He was present on the field with Lionel after achieving such success.
Newell’s Old Boys, Lionel Messi’s first club in Argentina, commemorated Jorge’s impact, stating, “Jorge was the pillar of strength and the person who, along with his wife, Celia Cuccittini, supported the career of the greatest player of all time with vision, rigor, and affection. His constant support and behind-the-scenes leadership were fundamental in backing every step of Lionel’s journey, from his beginnings in the Falklands to the pinnacle of world football glory. Thank you for teaching him to love these colors.”
Jorge and Celia were present at the MLS Eastern Conference final in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, watching their son, who is currently playing for Inter Miami.
Jorge Messi played a crucial role in Lionel’s career, taking him to Barcelona for a tryout in 2000 and moving to Spain when Lionel joined the club. Jorge later managed his son’s deals with Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, and Inter Miami.
During Argentina’s first World Cup game this year, Lionel Messi was emotional after scoring a hat trick against Algeria. At a post-match press conference, he mentioned that his tears were due to “something unrelated to football,” without providing further details.
The Messi family had previously released a statement mentioning Jorge’s health issues, saying he was “recovering and evolving favorably.” They criticized the “rumors and speculations” regarding Jorge’s health, emphasizing it was a private matter.
Following his father’s passing, it was uncertain whether Lionel Messi would play in the upcoming match with Inter Miami against Monterrey in the Leagues Cup.