Jorge Messi, the father and longtime agent of Argentine football star Lionel Messi, has died at the age of 68 in his hometown of Rosario, Argentina.
Jorge died on Friday night at a medical clinic in Rosario after undergoing treatment for an undisclosed illness. His death was reported by multiple international news organisations, with the Messi family having previously asked for privacy regarding his health.
Jorge played a major role in his son’s extraordinary football career. He began managing Lionel’s professional affairs when Messi was a teenager and accompanied him when the young footballer travelled to Spain for his pivotal trial with Barcelona. He later handled his son’s contracts, transfers, business affairs and image rights.
The 68-year-old was a former steelworker and had also played football at youth level before leaving the sport following military service in Argentina. His close involvement in Lionel’s career made him one of the most influential figures behind the footballer’s rise from Rosario to global stardom.
Jorge’s illness became a source of concern during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Lionel Messi had previously acknowledged that his father was seriously ill and appealed for privacy after reports about Jorge’s condition circulated publicly.
News of Jorge’s death has prompted an outpouring of condolences from the football community. Newell’s Old Boys, the Rosario club where Lionel Messi developed as a youngster, and CONMEBOL have expressed their condolences to the Messi family.
Jorge Messi leaves behind a lasting legacy through his pivotal role in guiding one of football’s greatest careers, from his son’s early days in Rosario to his emergence as a global football icon.
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