Jorge Messi, father of Lionel Messi, dies at 68

Jorge Messi, the father of football star Lionel Messi, passed away on August 8, 2026, at the age of 68. He had been battling a serious illness for an extended period and died in a clinic in Rosario, Argentina. Before his passing, he had spent time receiving care at home surrounded by his wife, Celia Cuccittini, and their family.

Born on January 1, 1958, in Rosario, Jorge Messi was a central figure in his son's career. He played a pivotal role in the family's decision to relocate to Spain when Lionel was 13, navigating complex contract negotiations and managing key professional decisions for over two decades. During his recent illness, the elder Messi had been hospitalized, and while rumors of his death had circulated incorrectly in the media during the World Cup, the official announcement was confirmed by outlets on August 8.

Following the news, major football clubs, including Real Madrid and FC Barcelona, issued official statements expressing their condolences to Lionel Messi and his family. The death marks the end of a long journey for the man who oversaw his son's transition from a local youth player to a global football icon.