Lionel Messi's father dies aged 68

Jorge Messi, father of eight-time Ballon d"Or winner and FIFA World Cup champion with Argentina Lionel Messi, has died at the age of 68.

According to Report, citing Argentine newspaper Infobae, Jorge Messi died at a clinic in Rosario on Friday evening.

He had been battling an illness for a long time, although the specific condition was not disclosed.

In June, it was reported that Jorge Messi had been hospitalized due to health problems.

During the 2026 FIFA World Cup, an Argentine television channel mistakenly reported the death of the footballer's father, after which Messi nearly flew home. The journalist was subsequently fired and publicly apologized for the false report.

Immediately after the conclusion of the 2026 World Cup, Messi traveled to Argentina to visit his father.

Jorge Messi served as his son's agent throughout his entire professional career.