Jorge Messi, father and agent of Lionel Messi, dies aged 68

Jorge Messi, father and former agent of Lionel Messi, has died aged 68 at a medical clinic in Rosario, Argentina, the family announced on 8 August 2026, saying he had been ill for a long period.

Jorge Messi spent his final months alternating between a medical centre in Rosario and his home, accompanied by his wife, Celia, and his children Rodrigo, Matías and María Sol, the family said. Lionel Messi spent time with his father after the World Cup before rejoining his club, Inter Miami, and returned to action a week ago. Newell’s Old Boys announced the death in a social media post, saying he had undergone treatment in recent months for an unspecified illness and describing him as “the pillar and the person who, with vision, rigour and affection, supported the career of the best player of all time, alongside his wife, Celia Cuccittini”. The South American Football Confederation, Conmebol, offered its condolences in a statement “with respect and affection for Lionel”.

At the World Cup, Lionel Messi broke down in tears while celebrating his first goal in Argentina’s opening 3-0 victory over Algeria and afterwards said he was going through a difficult personal situation. He later said his tears were due to “something unrelated to football” after going through “a few difficult, complicated days”.

There was speculation that Messi’s emotional reaction to Argentina’s last-16 victory over Egypt was linked to his father’s health; a few days later the family issued a statement about Jorge Messi’s “health situation”, informing the public he was undergoing medical treatment. Newell’s and the family statements together outlined the course of his illness without specifying its nature.

Jorge Messi accompanied his son throughout his career from his early years at Barcelona and for several years acted as his representative. “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,” said Lionel Messi.

Inter Miami are due to play Monterrey on Saturday at home in the 2026 Leagues Cup, but the MLS club have yet to announce whether he will feature.