Jorge Horacio Messi, the father and longtime representative of football superstar Lionel Messi, has died at the age of 68 after a prolonged illness, bringing an end to the life of one of the most influential figures behind his son’s extraordinary career.
Jorge Messi died in Rosario, where he had been receiving medical treatment. His death was reported by Argentine media and subsequently confirmed by multiple international news organisations, including Reuters and The Associated Press.
The elder Messi had been battling an undisclosed health condition for months. During the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the Messi family confirmed that he was receiving medical care and asked the media and public to avoid speculation about his condition.
His illness became an increasingly painful backdrop to Lionel Messi’s World Cup campaign.
The Argentina captain became emotional after scoring against Algeria during the tournament, and reports subsequently connected the moment to concerns about his father’s worsening health. According to Reuters, Lionel had been spending time with his father after the World Cup and was expected to return to Rosario following news of his death.
Jorge remained largely away from the spotlight throughout Lionel’s career, despite playing a central role in its development.
A former steelworker and chemical technician, he became his son’s representative and was closely involved in the decisions that shaped Lionel’s move from Rosario to Barcelona as a teenager. He accompanied Lionel during the early stages of his career in Spain and remained a trusted adviser throughout his professional life.
The relationship between father and son extended well beyond football management.
Jorge and Lionel were among the central figures in the family’s decision to pursue opportunities in Europe when the young Messi’s footballing potential became increasingly apparent. FC Barcelona records confirm Jorge’s role as Lionel’s father and representative and document his involvement in major career decisions.
Jorge’s death has prompted tributes across the football world. The Argentine Football Association announced commemorative measures across Argentine football, while clubs and football institutions, including Barcelona and Newell’s Old Boys, expressed their condolences.
For Lionel Messi, the loss is deeply personal. The man who helped guide him from Rosario to Barcelona, and ultimately into the history of world football, has died in the city where their story began.
Jorge Messi was 68.
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