Jorge Horacio Messi, the father of Argentina and Inter Miami star Lionel Messi, has died at the age of 68.
Jorge died on Friday, August 8, at a medical clinic in Rosario, Argentina, following a prolonged illness, according to reports. His death was confirmed on Saturday, with Messi’s boyhood club Newell’s Old Boys among those paying tribute.
Beyond being Messi’s father, Jorge was one of the key figures behind his son’s remarkable career. He served as Messi’s representative and business adviser for much of his professional journey, helping guide some of the biggest decisions of his career.
Jorge’s influence began long before Messi became a global superstar. He coached his son when Messi started playing at Abanderado Grandoli in Rosario and remained closely involved as he progressed through the youth ranks at Newell’s Old Boys.
When Messi was 13, Jorge accompanied him to Spain for a trial with Barcelona. The family faced uncertainty over whether the club would commit to the young Argentine, particularly because of the medical treatment he needed for a growth hormone deficiency.
Jorge remained determined to secure a future for his son at Barcelona. In December 2000, Barcelona sporting director Carles Rexach famously wrote a commitment to sign Messi on a paper napkin during a meeting arranged partly to reassure Jorge that the club would proceed with the deal.
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Messi eventually joined Barcelona’s youth academy and went on to become the club’s all-time leading scorer.
Jorge later became his son’s agent and managed many aspects of his professional and business affairs. He was involved in major contract negotiations and remained a trusted adviser as Messi established himself as one of the greatest players in football history.
The close relationship between father and son remained evident throughout Messi’s career. Messi has previously spoken about the importance of Jorge’s opinion, including his assessment of his performances on the pitch.
Jorge’s health became a concern during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Messi appeared emotional after scoring in Argentina’s opening match against Algeria, although he later explained that his emotions were linked to personal difficulties away from football. The family subsequently confirmed that Jorge was receiving medical treatment.
His legacy will forever be linked to one of football’s greatest careers. From taking his young son to Barcelona and helping secure the opportunity that changed his life, to representing him throughout his rise to global superstardom, Jorge Messi played a central role behind the scenes in the making of Lionel Messi.
