Lionel Messi's Father, Jorge, Has Sadly Died At 68

Jorge Messi, the father of Lionel Messi, has died at 68, according to Argentine and Spanish outlets. During the 2026 World Cup, the Messi family had said Jorge was dealing with a “health-related situation,” adding that he was under medical care, recovering, and evolving favorably. Lionel appeared emotional during a conversation with former Argentina teammate Juan Pablo Sorin, with many assuming it was tied to his father’s condition. Newell’s Old Boys, one of Messi’s youth clubs, posted a tribute calling Jorge “the pillar” who supported Lionel’s career “with vision, rigor, and affection,” alongside his wife Celia Cuccittini. Fans and clubs shared condolences online after the confirmation on August 8, 2026.