Lionel Messi’s father Jorge dies at 68

Jorge Messi, father of football star Lionel Messi, died Friday night at 68 in a medical clinic in Rosario, Argentina, after a long illness, his family confirmed to Reuters.

The family said Jorge Messi spent his final months alternating between a medical centre in Rosario and his home. They said his wife, Celia, and his children Rodrigo, Matias and Maria Sol accompanied him during that period, Channel News Asia reported.

Jorge Messi closely accompanied Lionel Messi throughout his career, beginning with his early years at Barcelona. He served as a key support figure and, for several years, as Lionel Messi’s representative. “I always needed my dad's approval, ever since I was a kid. After every match, I'd ask him what he thought of how I played,” Lionel Messi said previously.

Lionel Messi, 39, spent time with his father after the World Cup before rejoining Inter Miami, for whom he returned to action a week ago. During the World Cup, the Argentina captain scored a hat trick in the opening match against Algeria and broke down in tears while celebrating his first goal. He later told a press conference the tears were due to “something unrelated to football” after “a few difficult, complicated days”; days later, the family issued a statement on Jorge Messi’s “health situation”, saying he was undergoing medical treatment.

Several clubs, including Real Madrid and Newell’s Old Boys, expressed condolences to Lionel Messi and his family, as did the Argentine Football Association. “From here, we stand in solidarity with the entire family during this difficult time and send the most heartfelt, warm, and affectionate embrace. Strength to you all,” the Argentine FA said. Inter Miami did not immediately respond to a request for comment and were scheduled to play Monterrey in the Leagues Cup group stage later on Saturday.