Jorge Messi, the father and longtime representative of Argentina captain Lionel Messi, has died at the age of 68.
Jorge reportedly died at about 10pm on Friday at a medical facility in Rosario, Argentina, after a prolonged illness. His death was reported on Saturday by Spanish newspaper MARCA, citing Argentine media outlet Infobae.
He was married to Celia Cuccittini and had four children: Lionel, Rodrigo, Matias and Maria Sol.
Beyond being the father of one of football’s greatest players, Jorge played a major role in Lionel Messi’s development and career from his early childhood.
He was particularly instrumental in helping his son secure treatment after Messi was diagnosed with a growth-related medical condition. When the family struggled to obtain the required treatment in Argentina, Jorge helped facilitate Messi’s move to Barcelona at the age of 13.
Jorge stayed with his son in Spain during the difficult early years of his European career, while other members of the family remained in Rosario.
Messi later spoke about the sacrifices his father made during that period, recalling how Jorge stood by him through difficult moments and gave him the choice of continuing his football journey in Spain or returning to Argentina.
The decision proved pivotal as Messi progressed through Barcelona’s academy before becoming one of the most decorated and successful footballers in history.
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As his son’s career grew, Jorge became increasingly involved in managing Messi’s professional and business affairs. He represented the football star in major negotiations and commercial agreements while largely maintaining a low public profile.
Jorge rarely granted interviews, but on occasions when he spoke about his son, he highlighted the challenges the family had overcome and praised Lionel for his character both on and off the pitch.
Concerns over Jorge’s health became public during the 2026 World Cup after Messi appeared emotional following Argentina’s opening match. After scoring a hat-trick, the Argentina captain said his emotions were linked to personal circumstances rather than football.
Messi later explained that the situation was related to his family, with the Messi family subsequently confirming that Jorge was under medical supervision and recovering at the time.
Jorge trained as a chemical technician and began working for Argentine steel company Acindar in the 1980s, eventually rising to a managerial position.
He also played football in his youth as a midfielder in the Newell’s Old Boys youth system before abandoning the sport after being called up for military service.
Jorge Messi leaves behind a lasting legacy as the father and trusted adviser who supported Lionel Messi through some of the most difficult and defining moments of his remarkable football journey.
