Lionel Messi in mourning as his father dies
By Luke Oluoch, August 8, 2026The football world has joined soccer icon Lionel Messi in mourning following the demise of his father, Jorge Messi.
The Inter Miami striker and World Cup winner’s dad died on Friday, August 7, 2026.
The news was confirmed by media outlets and official sources on Saturday, August 8, 2026, including football journalist Fabrizio Romano and Messi’s boyhood club, Newell’s Old Boys and their bitter rivals, Rosario Central
Passing of Jorge Messi
“Club Atlético Newell’s Old Boys deeply regrets the passing of Jorge Messi. We accompany Lionel, his family, and all his loved ones with respect and affection in this painful moment. May he rest in peace,” the Argentine club said in an official statement.
Jorge Horacio Messi passed away at the age of 68 after a prolonged battle with illness. He was central to Messi’s journey to global stardom, right from when the young forward first left his hometown in Argentina, while his mother stayed to take care of the family in Rosario.
He later became his son’s manager and official representative after Lionel joined Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy, guiding his professional affairs while remaining a constant presence throughout every stage of his career.
Leaving home with Messi for Spain
In 2000, when a 13-year-old Lionel was invited to Barcelona for a trial, Jorge travelled alongside him from Rosario to Spain to pursue the opportunity. With the family unable to cover the costs of Lionel’s growth hormone treatment in Argentina, Jorge worked closely with Barcelona to secure an agreement that included funding the essential medical care.
According to reports, Jorge valiantly fought his illness over an extended period. His family, including Lionel himself, bore the emotional toll during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where Messi led the Albiceleste to back-to-back finals despite losing the title to eventual world champion Spain.
Messi’s tearful reaction following his team’s match against Algeria was tied to his family’s private ordeal, which eventually prompted the Messi family to speak publicly about Jorge’s health to end media speculation.