Jorge Messi, Lionel’s Guiding Figure, Dies at 68

Sun Sep 06 2026 03:03:13 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Jorge Messi, former agent and steadfast supporter of Lionel Messi, has died after a prolonged illness. The football world mourns the loss of a pivotal presence in Argentine football.

Jorge Messi passed away at 68 in a Rosario hospital after a long illness. A lifelong agent and father, he guided Lionel Messi’s rise from a young striker to a record‑breaking football legend. The family issued a statement of gratitude and privacy, and clubs such as Newell’s Old Boys, Barcelona, and the Argentine Football Association expressed heartfelt condolences. His absence echoes through the world of football, where he was celebrated for shaping the career of the sport’s most renowned player.

Lionel Messi’s father and former agent, Jorge Messi, died at the age of 68 after a long illness. The 68‑year‑old passed away in a hospital in his hometown of Rosario, Argentina, early Saturday morning.

Jorge’s influence on Lionel’s career cannot be overstated. From the moment Lionel joined Newell’s Old Boys at seven to signing a record contract with Barça at 13, Jorge was the pillar behind the young striker’s development, balancing consultancy with unwavering family support.

In a statement released after rumors of a health emergency during the World Cup, the Messi family thanked the football community for its respectful silence and the clubs that honoured his legacy. Both Newell’s Old Boys and Barça issued heartfelt comments: “His commitment to our club and to Lionel’s early years was invaluable,” read Barca, while Newell’s added, “We share Celia, Lionel, Rodrigo, Matías and Maria Sol in this difficult moment.”

The Argentine Football Association also issued a statement mourning his passing, vowing solidarity with the family. The world of football, which has seen Lionel win eight Ballon d’Or awards and a 2022 World Cup, now reflects on the man whose guidance helped shape a modern legend.