Jorge Messi: The Father Who Shaped Lionel Messi’s Journey, Dies at 68
- By Thetripurapost Desk, Rosario, Argentina
- Aug 09, 2026
- 181
Jorge Messi, the father and longtime representative of Argentine football superstar Lionel Messi, has died at the age of 68 following a prolonged illness. He passed away in Rosario, Argentina, where he had been receiving medical treatment.
The death of Jorge Messi was confirmed on Saturday by Newell’s Old Boys, the Rosario club where Lionel Messi developed as a young footballer. The club paid tribute to Jorge and acknowledged his importance in his son’s extraordinary journey from local football to the global stage.
Jorge Messi’s role in Lionel Messi’s football journey
Jorge Messi was much more than Lionel Messi’s father. For more than two decades, he was closely involved in managing his son’s professional affairs and played an important role in major career decisions.
He accompanied Lionel during the difficult early years of his career, including the move from Argentina to Spain when Messi was only 13 years old. Messi subsequently joined Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy, beginning the journey that eventually established him as one of football’s most celebrated players.
Jorge, who had worked in Rosario’s steel industry, remained a constant presence as his son progressed through Barcelona’s youth system and ultimately became a global football superstar.
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From Barcelona to PSG and Inter Miami
As Lionel Messi’s representative, Jorge was involved in negotiations surrounding some of the most important stages of his son’s career.
His responsibilities extended through Messi’s historic Barcelona years, his departure from the Spanish club in 2021, his subsequent spell with Paris Saint-Germain and his eventual move to Inter Miami in 2023.
Jorge was also involved in communication with Barcelona president Joan Laporta when Messi decided to continue his career in Major League Soccer.
Newell’s Old Boys pay tribute
Newell’s Old Boys, the club where Messi spent part of his childhood football development, lowered its flag to half-mast following Jorge Messi’s death.
The Argentine club remembered the family’s long connection with Lionel’s football journey and offered condolences to his relatives and loved ones.
The death has also prompted tributes from across Argentine and international football.
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Messi family had requested privacy
The Messi family had previously asked for privacy after Jorge’s health problems became known.
Reports said he had been undergoing treatment for a prolonged illness. However, the family and medical authorities have not publicly disclosed the specific cause of death, and speculation about his medical condition should be treated cautiously.
Jorge Messi’s health during the 2026 World Cup
Jorge Messi’s health was also a subject of attention during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Lionel Messi became emotional while discussing a difficult period in his personal life during the tournament, with subsequent reports linking the situation to his father’s health.
Despite the personal circumstances, Messi continued to represent Argentina during the World Cup.
Jorge and Lionel Messi’s tax case
Jorge Messi and Lionel Messi were also involved in a tax case in Spain. In 2016, a Spanish court convicted both father and son over tax-related offences. Their sentences were below two years.
Despite the legal controversy, Jorge remained closely involved in Lionel Messi’s professional career and personal journey.
A father behind one of football’s greatest careers
From Rosario to Barcelona and later Paris and Miami, Jorge Messi remained one of the most important figures behind Lionel Messi’s career.
His influence began long before his son became a household name. He supported Lionel through medical and financial difficulties during his childhood, helped facilitate his move to Barcelona and later represented him during major professional decisions.
Jorge Messi’s death marks the loss of a figure who played a significant behind-the-scenes role in the extraordinary career of one of football’s greatest stars.
TheTripurapost extends condolences to Lionel Messi and the Messi family
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