Jorge Messi, the father of Argentine football star Lionel Messi, died on Friday at the age of 68 in a Rosario medical clinic following a long illness. Clubs, officials, and teammates across international football offered tributes as the family gathered for a private wake.
Final Days and Family Tributes in Rosario
Jorge Messi passed away on Friday night at a medical clinic in the Argentine city of Rosario after a long illness, according to confirmation provided to Reuters by the footballer’s family. He spent his final months alternating between his home and a medical center in Rosario, cared for by his wife, Celia, and his children Rodrigo, Matías, and María Sol.
Lionel Messi, who spent time with his father following the World Cup in North America before returning to action with RTE.ie, traveled to Argentina on a private flight to attend a private wake in Rosario. During the recent World Cup, speculation had surrounded the family when Lionel broke down in tears after scoring against Algeria, later explaining at a press conference that his emotion stemmed from something unrelated to football after navigating a few difficult, complicated days. Days afterward, the family released a statement confirming that Jorge was undergoing medical treatment for his health situation.
A Crucial Pillar in a Legendary Career
Starting as a metal factory worker in Argentina, Jorge served as his son’s first coach before orchestrating the monumental move to Europe in 2000. Leaving behind a stable job, he accompanied a 13-year-old Lionel to Catalonia, where his behind-the-scenes guidance helped persuade Barcelona to sign the young prospect. He later formalized his role as his son’s agent and representative across spells at Barcelona, Paris St-Germain, and Inter Miami.
“I always needed my dad’s approval, ever since I was a kid. After every match, I’d ask him what he thought of how I played.”
Lionel Messi missed Inter Miami’s Leagues Cup fixture against Monterrey on Saturday night. Before kick-off, Inter Miami observed a moment of silence, displayed Jorge’s name on the big screens at Nu Stadium, and had players wear black armbands. During the match, Argentina teammate Rodrigo de Paul celebrated scoring the opening goal by removing his jersey to reveal Lionel Messi’s shirt beneath it.
Inter Miami CF mourns death of captain's father Jorge Messi
MLS club teammate Luis Suárez, who was sidelined for the match due to suspension, posted a message on Instagram stating that Jorge would continue to watch over his son with pride, as he always did. Fans gathered outside Lionel Messi’s childhood home in Rosario, leaving flags and floral tributes as the football community observed a weekend of mourning.
