Jorge Messi, father and agent of Lionel Messi, dies at 68

Jorge Messi, the father and longtime agent of football superstar Lionel Messi, has died at the age of 68. The news, confirmed by multiple Argentine media outlets and the Sanatorio Centro hospital in Rosario, marks the passing of the man widely credited as the architect behind one of the sport's greatest careers. His death follows a prolonged illness that had become a matter of public concern during the recent FIFA World Cup 2026.

The seriousness of Jorge Messi's health issues became visible during the tournament, which was held in the United States. After scoring against Algeria, Lionel Messi was visibly emotional and later explained his reaction was due to personal difficulties unrelated to football. "I have had a few difficult days," he said at the time. This prompted the Messi family to issue a statement in June, confirming Jorge was under medical supervision and asking for privacy. Reports from Argentina indicated he had been receiving care in Rosario, and that his condition had been deteriorating for some time. According to accounts, Lionel Messi considered leaving the World Cup to be with his father but ultimately continued with the Argentina squad. Following the...