Jorge Messi, the father and agent of Argentina’s renowned footballer Lionel Messi, has passed away at the age of 68. He died in the early hours of Saturday morning at a medical clinic in his hometown of Rosario, Argentina, following a prolonged illness. The family confirmed his passing, noting that he had spent his final months alternating between a medical centre in Rosario and his home, accompanied by his wife, Celia, and their children Rodrigo, Matías, and María Sol.
Newell’s Old Boys, a club with which Jorge had a strong connection, announced his death through a social media post. The club described him as a pivotal figure who, with “vision, rigour and affection,” supported the career of his son, alongside his wife Celia Cuccittini. The post also highlighted his constant companionship and behind-the-scenes leadership, which were essential in backing Lionel’s journey from his early days at Malvinas youth academy to achieving global football glory.
The Argentine Football Association also expressed its condolences, stating it “deeply mourns with sadness and sorrow the passing of Jorge Messi.” The association extended its solidarity to the entire family during this difficult time, sending a heartfelt embrace.
A life dedicated to his son’s career
Jorge Messi played a crucial role in his son’s football career, serving as his agent since Lionel was 14 years old. He closely accompanied Lionel throughout his journey, which began in his early years at Barcelona. Lionel Messi himself acknowledged his father’s influence, stating, “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.”
The family relocated to Spain in February 2001 after Lionel was signed by Barcelona at the age of 13. While Lionel’s mother and three siblings eventually returned to Rosario, Jorge remained with his son in Barcelona, providing continuous support.
Jorge was present in Qatar to witness Lionel lead Argentina to their third World Cup triumph in 2022. This victory marked a significant milestone in Lionel’s career, adding to his achievements, which include being an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, securing the Champions League four times with Barcelona, and winning 10 La Liga titles over 17 seasons with the club’s first team.
Health concerns during the World Cup
Speculation about Jorge Messi’s health had emerged during this summer’s World Cup. Lionel Messi had spent time with his father after the World Cup before rejoining his club, Inter Miami, where he returned to action a week ago. During the tournament, Lionel Messi had spoken about going through a difficult personal situation after Argentina’s 3-0 victory over Algeria. He explained that his tears during the celebration of his first goal in the team’s opening match were due to “something unrelated to football” after experiencing “a few difficult, complicated days.”
There was further speculation that Lionel’s emotional reaction to Argentina’s last-16 victory over Egypt was partly influenced by his father’s deteriorating health. A few days later, the family issued a statement addressing Jorge Messi’s “health situation,” informing the public that he was undergoing medical treatment for an unspecified illness.
The Messi family had previously responded to a false report by an Argentine television presenter who claimed Jorge had died during Argentina’s opening game at this summer’s World Cup. The presenter later resigned, and the family expressed their “deep discomfort with the lack of sensitivity, respect and discretion with which some people have treated what is strictly a private family matter.”
Inter Miami is scheduled to play Monterrey on Saturday at home in the 2026 Leagues Cup, though the MLS club has not yet announced whether Lionel Messi will feature in the match.
Source: theguardian.com
