Jorge Messi, the father of football superstar Lionel Messi, has died at the age of 68 in Rosario, Argentina, following a prolonged illness. His passing was confirmed by Newell’s Old Boys, the prestigious Argentine club where Lionel played between 1995 and 2000. In a statement posted to X on Saturday morning, the club paid tribute to the elder Messi, describing him as the foundational figure who supported his son’s career with vision, rigor, and affection alongside his wife, Celia Cuccittini.
The club’s statement, translated from Spanish, highlighted Jorge’s essential role in his son’s journey, noting his behind-the-scenes leadership from Lionel’s early days at Malvinas to the pinnacle of global football. The tribute concluded with the poignant remark, “Thank you for teaching him to love these colors.”
A former steel worker, Jorge Messi was instrumental in managing his son’s professional trajectory. His health had previously become a subject of public concern during the FIFA World Cup in June, when inaccurate reports of his death circulated. At that time, the Messi family issued a sharp response, criticizing those who spread rumors and speculation while emphasizing that only immediate family members could provide verified updates.
Lionel Messi, 39, recently experienced an emotional moment during his record-breaking sixth World Cup appearance. After scoring a hat trick in a 3-0 victory over Algeria, the forward was visibly moved to tears. Addressing the moment in Spanish after the match, he explained, “Why did I cry? It was something completely unrelated to football. I have been through some difficult, complicated days.”
Throughout the tournament, Messi netted eight goals across eight matches, ultimately leading Argentina to the final on July 19 in East Rutherford, New Jersey, where they were defeated 1-0 by Spain. Following the tournament, Messi took a brief leave from his duties with Inter Miami CF to visit his father in Argentina.
Messi returned to the pitch this past Wednesday for a Leagues Cup match against Atletico de San Luis, contributing two goals and an assist in a 4-2 victory. While Inter Miami has not yet commented on his availability for upcoming fixtures, the team is set to face Monterrey on Saturday night, followed by another Leagues Cup match on Wednesday. The club is scheduled to resume its MLS campaign on August 15.
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