Jorge Horacio Messi, father of Lionel Messi and a central figure in the Argentine champion's career, has died at the age of 68. He passed away Friday evening in a healthcare facility in Rosario, Argentina, after a long illness. He had also been his son's agent for many years.
A health issue that had been a concern since the 2026 World Cup
Jorge Messi's health had caused considerable concern in recent weeks. On June 18, during the 2026 World Cup, the Messi family publicly confirmed that he was experiencing health problems and was under medical supervision. At that time, however, his family indicated that he was recovering and that his condition was improving. They also requested that his privacy be respected in light of the numerous reports circulating about his health. Lionel Messi himself had gone through a particularly difficult period during the World Cup. After scoring in Argentina's 3-0 victory against Algeria, the Argentine striker broke down in tears. When questioned about his emotions, he explained that he had been experiencing some difficult days for reasons unrelated to football.
The father who accompanied Lionel Messi to Barcelona
Jorge Messi played a pivotal role in his son's development from his early childhood in Rosario. When Lionel Messi, then 13 years old, left Argentina to try his luck at FC Barcelona, his father accompanied him to Spain. This move proved to be a turning point in the life of the future global superstar. Lionel Messi went on to join Barça's youth academy before making his debut with the first team and becoming one of the most decorated players in the club's history. Jorge Messi gradually became much more than just the player's father. He took over a large part of his son's affairs and professional interests, permanently assuming the role of his son's representative.
His representative during major career decisions
For over 20 years, Jorge Messi was present during key negotiations concerning Lionel Messi's career. Contracts, extensions, and discussions with clubs: he maintained a significant role in the player's professional life. He was notably directly involved in the discussions surrounding Lionel Messi's highly publicized departure from FC Barcelona in 2021, after more than 20 years with the Catalan club. Lionel Messi then joined Paris Saint-Germain before leaving France in 2023 to continue his career with Inter Miami in the United States.
Jorge Messi died in Rosario
Jorge Messi passed away in Rosario, the city where Lionel Messi was born and where his entire family history began. He was 68 years old and married to Celia Cuccittini. The couple had four children: Rodrigo, Matías, Lionel, and María Sol. His passing deeply affects the man who, from Lionel Messi's earliest days in Argentina to the greatest milestones of his international career, remained one of his closest supporters and representatives.
