After a long health battle, Lionel Messi's father, Jorge Messi has died at 68. Meanwhile, here's everything you might want to know about him.
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Add BollywoodShaadis on GoogleLionel Messi's father, Jorge Horacio Messi, has bid farewell to the world. The heartbreaking update has come weeks after his health reports surfaced during the FIFA World Cup 2026. He was best known among Lionel's fans for his unconditional support for his son's football dreams. Jorge was not just the football star's father, but also his first coach, manager, and advisor.
Jorge Messi was born in Rosario, Argentina. He began his career by working as a manager at a steel factory to support his family. But his regular job did not deter him from his love for football. In fact, he was the one to introduce Lionel Messi to the sport at a young age. In turn, he became his son's first coach during his childhood.
Jorge especially stood up for his son when Lionel was diagnosed with a growth hormone deficiency. He was just 11 at that time, and the treatment for the same was expensive, costing around USD 1,000 every month. But despite the financial burden, Jorge was determined to support his son. In fact, he looked for opportunities that would allow Lionel to seek treatment while continuing to focus on football.
Once again in 2000, Jorge made the tough choice to leave Argentina and move to Spain with 13-year-old Lionel. They had to take the call after FC Barcelona agreed to cover the young player's medical expenses. At the same time, they welcomed Lionel to the esteemed La Masia Academy. Needless to say, that one decision eventually changed football history.
For those unaware, Jorge Messi was married to Celia Maria Cuccittini. She used to work multiple jobs to support her family when Lionel and his siblings were growing up. Overall, their whole household was focused on hard work and sacrifice. Meanwhile, Jorge took all the important football-related decisions for his son. They also had three more kids, Rodrigo, Matia, and Maria Sol.
After Jorge took Lionel to Spain, he became Lionel's official representative. Eventually, he also became his manager. Although the initial years away from home were not easy for either of them, they hid their tears from each other. Later, Lionel shared how he and his tried to become strong for the sake of each other during those days.
Eventually, when the football star's career began to rise, Jorge made many decisions that shaped his current success. He guided his son to negotiate contracts, make an iconic stint with Barcelona and later move to Paris Saint-Germain, and Inter Miami.
Apart from business, Lionel once mentioned that he always valued his father's opinion and looked forward to his feedback. Despite Lionel Messi's fame and success, he continued to share a strong bond with his parents. He frequently shares in his interviews that he admires them and the sacrifices they made, which helped him achieve his dreams.
Jorge Messi died at around 2 a.m on August 8, 2026, at the Sanatorio Centro medical clinic in Rosario. He was reportedly battling a long illness. Although his family confirmed his death, they have decided to keep the specific details about his condition private.
Some reports claim that Jorge spent his final months surrounded by his wife, children, and loved ones. Meanwhile, several football stars, franchises, and countless fans sent their tribute to the Messi family.
Rest in peace, Jorge Horacio Messi. We share our heartfelt condolences with his family in this difficult time.
Also Read: Lionel Messi's Dad Jorge Stayed By Him When He Cried From Homesickness, Made Lots Of Sacrifices