By SUNTV Global Channel
August 8, 2026
Football legend Lionel Messi is mourning the loss of his father, Jorge Messi, who has died at the age of 68 after a prolonged illness.
Jorge Messi passed away on Friday night, August 7, 2026, at a medical facility in Rosario, Argentina — the hometown of the Messi family.
The elder Messi played a major role in shaping his son’s historic football career, serving as Lionel Messi’s agent and helping guide him from his early days as a young talent in Rosario to becoming one of the greatest footballers in history.
Reports said Jorge had been receiving medical treatment in recent months for an undisclosed health condition. Earlier in June, the Messi family confirmed that he was facing health challenges and appealed for privacy while he received medical care.
Beyond his role as a father, Jorge Messi was a key figure in managing his son’s professional journey, business affairs and career decisions throughout Lionel Messi’s rise to global football stardom.
The death comes as a major personal loss for the Argentina captain and Inter Miami forward, who has often spoken about the influence and support his father provided throughout his career.
Tributes are expected from the football world as fans and colleagues remember Jorge Messi’s contribution behind the scenes to the success of one of the sport’s greatest icons.
