Jorge Messi, the father and long-serving representative of soccer star Lionel Messi, died on Friday night at a medical clinic in Rosario, Argentina, at the age of 68 following a long illness, his family confirmed to Reuters.
The death of Jorge Messi brings to a close the life of a central figure in the career of one of football’s defining talents. Born in Rosario, Jorge worked as a chemical technician and steelworker while raising his family. He played soccer as a midfielder and reached the youth ranks of local club Newell’s Old Boys before mandatory military service interrupted his playing days.
The Journey from Rosario to Barcelona
When Lionel Messi displayed prodigious talent as a child, his career faced a severe hurdle due to a growth hormone deficiency that required costly medical treatment.
“My dad was always by my side. Sometimes I would lock myself in my room to cry when we arrived in Barcelona, or my dad would do the same without me seeing him, or thinking I didn’t see him. We pretended we were both OK, but we weren’t. My dad even asked me what I wanted to do when we were feeling down, if I wanted to stay or go back, and I wanted to stay, and he stayed with me.”
Lionel Messi, speaking in a 2007 interview via AP News
As Lionel progressed through the club’s La Masia youth academy to make his professional debut in 2005, Jorge transitioned from protective father to professional agent.
Illness Shadowed the World Cup
Jorge Messi spent his final months alternating between a medical center in Rosario and his home, accompanied by his wife Celia Cuccittini and children Rodrigo, Matias, and Maria Sol.
His deteriorating health drew international attention during the recent World Cup in North America. Following Argentina’s opening match against Algeria—where Lionel scored a hat trick and broke down in tears—the Argentina captain told reporters that his emotional state stemmed from something unrelated to football
after navigating difficult, complicated days.
Days later, amid what the family criticized as irresponsible media speculation regarding a private health matter, a statement was released confirming that Jorge is experiencing a health issue.
At the time, the family noted he was under medical monitoring, recovering and evolving favorably within the condition he presents.
Tributes from Across the Soccer World
Clubs and sports bodies offered immediate condolences following the announcement of his death. Newell’s Old Boys, the club where both father and son rooted their footballing loyalties, issued an emotional statement honoring the family patriarch.
“Jorge was the pillar and the person who supported with vision, rigor, and affection the career of the greatest player of all time alongside his wife, Celia Cuccittini.”
Club Atlético Newell’s Old Boys, via AP News
The Argentine Football Association released a statement expressing solidarity with the family during this difficult time, while the South American Football Confederation, CONMEBOL, offered condolences with respect and affection for Lionel.
Return to Argentina and Immediate Schedule
Lionel Messi, who recently returned to action for Inter Miami following the tournament in North America, traveled back to Argentina to be with his family.
Inter Miami was scheduled to face Monterrey in the Leagues Cup group stage, while the Messi family gathers in Rosario to mourn a figure whose behind-the-scenes guidance shaped the trajectory of modern soccer history.
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