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Jorge Messi, Lionel Messi’s father and long-time representative, has died at 68 following a prolonged illness in Argentina.
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He played a crucial role in helping the young Messi move from Rosario to Barcelona at 13, a decision that changed the course of his son’s life and football career.
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Although he largely avoided the spotlight, Jorge remained an important figure in Messi’s professional and personal journey for more than two decades.
August 08, (THEWILL) — Lionel Messi is mourning the death of his father, Jorge Messi, who has died at the age of 68 following a prolonged illness.
Jorge reportedly passed away at a medical facility in Rosario at around 10pm on Friday, bringing an end to the life of a man who played a pivotal role in the journey of one of football’s most celebrated figures.
For much of Lionel Messi’s extraordinary career, the spotlight belonged to the Argentina captain.
Jorge, however, operated largely behind the scenes, helping his son navigate the challenges that came with becoming a global sporting superstar.
The Decision That Changed Everything
Long before Messi became a household name, his family faced a difficult challenge.
As a child, Lionel required growth hormone treatment, but financing the treatment in Argentina proved difficult.
With his football ability already attracting attention, the family eventually explored opportunities outside the country.
Jorge helped decide to take Lionel to Barcelona when the youngster was only 13.
It was a huge gamble for a family from Rosario. Lionel moved to Spain with his father while other members of the family remained in Argentina.
The move ultimately became the turning point in Messi’s life.
Barcelona provided the platform for him to develop at La Masia before he progressed into the senior team and began a career that would eventually include domestic titles, Champions League triumphs, individual awards, and, most importantly for Argentina, a World Cup victory.
A Father Who Stayed Close
Messi has previously reflected on how important his father’s support was during the difficult early years in Spain.
The teenager was faced with uncertainty at a time when his future was far from guaranteed, but Jorge remained beside him and helped him decide to continue pursuing his dream.
That relationship remained important even after Messi became one of the world’s biggest sporting stars.
Jorge later became his son’s long-time representative, helping handle negotiations and commercial matters as Messi’s career expanded beyond the football pitch.
While millions followed Lionel’s achievements, Jorge generally preferred to remain away from the centre of attention.
His Health Became A Concern During The World Cup
Jorge’s health reportedly became a source of concern during the 2026 World Cup.
Following Argentina’s opening match, Messi appeared emotional despite having scored a hat-trick.
When asked about his reaction, the veteran forward made it clear that his emotions were connected to circumstances away from football.
He later indicated that his family was going through a difficult period. The Messi family subsequently confirmed that Jorge was receiving medical care and was being monitored by doctors.
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Lionel continued with Argentina’s campaign and eventually helped the defending champions reach the World Cup final, where they were beaten 1-0 by Spain after extra time.
Jorge’s life was not always centred on football.
Before becoming known internationally as Lionel’s father and representative, he trained as a chemical technician and worked for Argentine steel company Acindar during the 1980s, eventually taking on managerial responsibilities.
He also had his own connection with the sport. Jorge played as a midfielder in Newell’s Old Boys’ youth system before military service brought his playing ambitions to an end.
That football background would later become significant when his son’s talent began to develop.
Olumide Atiba is a sports journalist with THEWILL, known for his keen news sense and compelling storytelling. He has built a reputation for turning leads into clear, well-structured reports that resonate with readers, with a strong focus on football coverage
