Jorge Messi, the father of football star Lionel Messi, has died at the age of 68.
Jorge died in a hospital in Rosario, Argentina, after battling ill health. Reports of his death emerged early on August 8. He was reported to have died at about 10 p.m. local time on August 7.
The death is a major personal loss for Lionel Messi. Jorge was a key figure in his son’s life and football career. He supported Lionel from his early years in the sport and remained close to him as his career grew.
Newell’s Old Boys, the Rosario club where Lionel Messi spent part of his youth career, paid tribute to Jorge after the news broke.
The club praised Jorge for his role in supporting Lionel’s career. It described him as a person who backed his son with vision, care and firm support.
Jorge was closely linked to Lionel’s football journey for many years. He helped guide his son through important stages of his career. His support was especially important during Lionel’s early years in Argentina and Spain.
Lionel Messi was born and raised in Rosario. He joined Newell’s Old Boys as a young player before moving to Spain. He later joined Barcelona and became one of the most successful players in football history.
Jorge remained an important person in his son’s life as Lionel became a global star. He also helped with matters linked to Lionel’s professional career.
Jorge’s health had become a concern before his death. During the 2026 World Cup, reports said he had been receiving treatment for health problems.
Lionel had also spoken about personal matters that affected his focus. He said issues away from football had made it hard to focus fully on his MLS season with Inter Miami and his World Cup plans.
Those personal issues were visible during the World Cup.
Messi became emotional after scoring his first goal of the tournament against Algeria. He was seen in tears after the goal. The moment came as he dealt with matters away from the pitch.
The death of Jorge now brings further sadness for the Argentina star and his family.
Jorge played an important role during Lionel’s rise from a young player in Rosario to one of the world’s best footballers. He was there during many key stages of his son’s career.
Lionel’s move to Spain as a young player was a major step in his football journey. His family supported him during that period. Jorge remained a steady presence as Lionel moved into professional football.
Over the years, Lionel Messi won major titles and awards. He built a record-breaking career with Barcelona and later played for Paris Saint Germain and Inter Miami. He also reached the top with Argentina.
Jorge’s support remained part of that long journey.
Newell’s Old Boys’ tribute also highlighted the close link between Jorge and the club’s former youth player. Lionel spent part of his early football years at the Rosario club before leaving Argentina.
The Messi family has not yet released a detailed public statement about Jorge’s death.
The loss comes during an important year for Lionel Messi. He continues to play for Inter Miami and remains a major name in world football.
For now, the focus is on his family and the loss of his father.
Jorge Messi dies at 68 after years of supporting Lionel through his football journey. His role in Lionel’s life was important long before the player became a global star.
From Rosario to the biggest stages in football, Jorge was part of the path that helped Lionel Messi build one of the sport’s most remarkable careers.
