Jorge Messi, the father of Argentina captain Lionel Messi, died at the age of 68. He passed away on Friday night at a medical clinic in Rosario, Argentina, after a long illness. The Messi family confirmed the news to Reuters. Sanatorio Centro medical director Carlos Mackey also confirmed the death in an official statement.
Jorge Messi spent his final months moving between a medical centre in Rosario and his home. His wife Celia and children Rodrigo, Matias and Maria Sol stayed by his side. Lionel Messi spent time with his father after the World Cup before returning to Inter Miami.
In June during the World Cup the Messi family released a statement. They said Jorge was “experiencing health issues” and was “under close medical attention.” The family later confirmed he remained under medical supervision and was progressing within his condition.
Jorge Messi acted as Lionel’s agent and business manager for many years. He supported his son from the early days at Newell’s Old Boys through the move to Barcelona and beyond.
The Argentine Football Association issued a statement. President Claudio Tapia and the association “mourns with sadness and deep sorrow the passing of Jorge Messi, father of our captain and icon, Lionel Messi.” The association added that a minute’s silence would take place at all matches in Argentina over the weekend.
Newell’s Old Boys also released a message. The club said it “bids farewell with deep sorrow and grief to Jorge Messi, who passed away at the age of 68 in the city of Rosario.”
Lionel Messi previously spoke about his father’s influence. “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,” he said.
