Jorge Messi, Lionel Messi’s father and agent, dies at 68

Jorge Messi, the father and long-time agent of Lionel Messi, has died at the age of 68 after a long illness, according to an announcement from the family. He died at a medical clinic in Rosario, the Argentinian city where he had been receiving treatment in recent months.

A central figure in Messi’s career

Jorge Messi was a constant presence throughout his son’s rise in football, from the early stages of Lionel Messi’s development at Barcelona to his emergence as one of the defining players of his era. Beyond his role as a father, he also served for years as his son’s representative and was widely seen as one of the key figures behind the structure and support that shaped the player’s career.

Lionel Messi has previously spoken about the importance of his father’s opinion, saying he had always sought his approval from childhood and would ask for his thoughts after matches. That bond, both personal and professional, made Jorge Messi an especially significant figure in the story of the Argentina captain’s life in football.

Final months in Rosario

The family said Jorge Messi spent his final months alternating between a medical centre in Rosario and his home. He was accompanied by his wife, Celia, and his children Rodrigo, Matías and María Sol.

Newell’s Old Boys confirmed the news in a social media post, noting that he had been undergoing treatment in recent months for an unspecified illness. The club described him as a pillar in Lionel Messi’s journey, highlighting the vision, discipline and affection with which he supported his son alongside Celia Cuccittini.

Condolences from Argentine football

The Argentinian Football Association also issued a message of support to the family, expressing solidarity and offering its condolences during what it called a difficult time.

Jorge Messi’s health had already become a matter of public concern during the World Cup. After Argentina’s victory over Algeria, Lionel Messi said he was dealing with a difficult personal situation and later explained that his tears were linked to something outside football after several complicated days. There was further speculation during the tournament that his father’s worsening condition had affected him emotionally, before the family later confirmed that Jorge Messi was undergoing medical treatment.

Uncertainty over Lionel Messi’s next appearance

Lionel Messi spent time with his father after the World Cup before returning to Inter Miami, where he came back into action a week ago. Inter Miami are scheduled to face Monterrey at home on Saturday in the 2026 Leagues Cup, although the MLS club had not announced at the time of writing whether Messi would be involved.

Jorge Messi’s death marks the loss of a deeply influential figure not only within his family but also in the career of one of football’s most celebrated players.