Jorge Messi, the father, agent, and longtime advisor of football star Lionel Messi, died on Friday, August 7, 2026, at the age of 68 in a clinic in Rosario, Argentina. His death follows a long illness that had weighed heavily on the family and prompted widespread public tributes across the sports world.
The death of the 68-year-old patriarch occurred in a clinic in Rosario, where he had been receiving medical care during a protracted battle with a long-term illness. Family members, including Lionel Messi and his siblings Rodrigo, Matias, and Maria Sol, mourned the loss at the clinic in their home city.
A Lifelong Pillar and Architect of an Unprecedented Career
Beyond his familial role, Jorge Messi served as the primary guiding force behind his son’s ascent from local youth leagues in Argentina to global superstardom. Long before Lionel Messi achieved international renown, his father navigated the critical early hurdles of his athletic development. When the young player was still representing Newell’s Old Boys in Rosario, Jorge Messi fought to secure and finance the necessary medical treatment for his son.
That dedication culminated in the family’s pivotal relocation to Spain. At age 13, Lionel Messi joined FC Barcelona, with his father accompanying him while other family members initially remained in Argentina. Operating as his son’s official agent and advisor, Jorge Messi managed high-stakes negotiations across decades, including the high-profile transfer from Barcelona to Paris Saint-Germain during the summer of 2023.
He does pretty much what he wants on a pitch. With his very low center of gravity, he has the ability to eliminate opponents. He’s also someone who really enjoys himself on a pitch. And generally, when he tries something, he pulls it off. We are all very proud of him, and personally he amazes me day after day. Never would I have thought he would reach such a level one day… Jorge Messi, speaking to RMC in March 2010
Health Struggles, World Cup Emotion, and False Reports
The final months of Jorge Messi’s life were marked by declining health that placed considerable emotional strain on the family. During the 2026 World Cup in June, Lionel Messi was seen visibly weeping on the pitch after scoring against Algeria. The team captain subsequently explained that he had experienced some difficult days completely unrelated to football.
Amid intensifying speculation across international media, the family issued a formal statement in June clarifying that Jorge Messi was undergoing medical treatment. The family’s announcement noted that He is currently under close medical supervision and his condition is improving. That statement followed an on-air mistake by a television presenter on Argentina’s Luzu TV who prematurely reported his death, triggering widespread public anger and leadership reprimands before network management intervened with disciplinary action against the production team.
Tributes and Reactions Across the Football Community
Following confirmation of his passing, clubs and sporting organizations offered condolences. Newell’s Old Boys, where both father and son maintained formative ties, published statements recognizing Jorge Messi’s lifelong association with the institution.
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