Jorge Messi, Father of Lionel Messi, Dies at 68

Jorge Messi, the father and long-time representative of Argentina captain Lionel Messi, died at the age of 68 at a sanatorium in Rosario, Argentina, on Friday night due to a prolonged illness. He was married to Celia Cuccittini and had four children: Lionel, Rodrigo, Matias, and Maria Sol.

Jorge was instrumental in Lionel's rise from a young player at Newell’s Old Boys to a global football star, notably securing medical treatment for Lionel's growth hormone deficiency and facilitating his move to Barcelona at age 13. He remained in Spain with Lionel during the early stages of his career, which Lionel described as a defining moment.

Jorge also managed Lionel's affairs off the pitch, including brand negotiations, while largely avoiding the spotlight. His health became a concern during the 2026 World Cup, prompting Lionel to express emotional distress related to family matters.

Jorge was trained as a chemical technician and worked at Acindar, an Argentine steel company.