Jorge Messi, the father and longtime agent of Argentine football legend Lionel Messi, has died at the age of 68 following a prolonged illness, as confirmed by the Messi family and major football institutions worldwide.
Family Confirms Death
The Messi family released a statement to Reuters confirming Jorge's passing. CONMEBOL, the Argentine national football team, FC Barcelona, and several other football organizations have also expressed their condolences. Jorge spent his final months alternating between a medical centre in Rosario and his home, accompanied by his wife Celia and his children Rodrigo, Matias, and Maria Sol. He passed away in the early hours of Saturday morning at Sanatorio Centro clinic in Rosario, Argentina.
Architect of a Legendary Career
Beyond being a father, Jorge Messi was the architect of one of the greatest careers in football history. From Lionel's early days at Newell's Old Boys in Rosario, Jorge guided his son through youth academies and club ranks in Spain before Lionel achieved stardom with FC Barcelona from 2004. Jorge served as Lionel's primary representative and business manager for much of his career, negotiating contracts and handling commercial arrangements as his son became the most decorated player in football history.
Tributes from Football Institutions
FC Barcelona paid tribute to Jorge's contribution, stating the club was grateful to him for entrusting them with the beginnings and most glorious years of Lionel's career. CONMEBOL expressed its condolences, saying it accompanied Lionel, his family, and loved ones "with respect and affection in this moment of profound grief." The Messi family had kept Jorge's illness private before confirming he was going through "a health situation" during the World Cup this summer. Jorge is survived by his wife Celia and his children, including Lionel, Rodrigo, Matias, and Maria Sol. Lionel Messi had not issued a public statement at the time of writing.
