Lionel Messi’s Father, Jorge Messi, Dies at 68

Jorge Messi, the father of Argentina and Inter Miami star Lionel Messi, has died at the age of 68, SportsRation reports.

Jorge reportedly passed away on Friday night in Rosario, Argentina, after a prolonged illness. His death has been reported by several outlets, with Spanish newspaper El País reporting that the news was confirmed by Argentine club Newell’s Old Boys. 

Jorge was a major figure in Lionel Messi’s life and career. He supported his son from his early days in football and later became his long-time representative and adviser.

The news comes less than two months after the Messi family confirmed that Jorge was receiving medical treatment and recovering from an undisclosed health condition. At the time, the family had also urged the public and media to respect their privacy after false reports of his death circulated. 

The Messi family has yet to issue a detailed public statement on his death.