Jorge Messi, Lionel Messi's Father, Dies at Age 68

Jorge Messi, the father of Argentinian and Inter Miami soccer star Lionel Messi, died Friday night at the age of 68.

Messi's family confirmed the death to Reuters, noting that Jorge died at a medical clinic in Rosario, Argentina, "after a long illness."

The Messi family informed Reuters that Jorge was surrounded by his wife and three of his children at the time of his passing. Lionel spent some time with Jorge following the end of the FIFA World Cup last month, before returning to Inter Miami last week.

The elder Messi played a pivotal role in Lionel's career, serving as his agent.

According to Ramiro Barreiro of the Associated Press, Jorge negotiated Lionel's deals with Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Miami, and he managed Lionel's name, image and likeness rights, as well as his numerous investments.

Per Reuters, Lionel broke down in tears in the midst of scoring a hat trick during Argentina's 3-0 win over Algeria to open their 2026 World Cup campaign.

After the match, Lionel said that he was dealing with "something unrelated to football," and that it had been "a few difficult, ⁠complicated days."

Shortly thereafter, the Messi family released a statement and announced that Jorge was undergoing medical treatment.

Despite playing with a heavy heart, Lionel scored the second-most goals at the World Cup with eight and led Argentina to a second consecutive World Cup final.

Messi was denied back-to-back World Cup wins, though, as Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 in extra time in the final.