Jorge Messi, Father of Lionel Messi, Dies at 68

Jorge Messi, the father and longtime agent of Argentine football legend Lionel Messi, passed away at the age of 68 following a prolonged illness. His death was confirmed by the Messi family in a statement to Reuters and acknowledged by CONMEBOL, the Argentine national football team, and FC Barcelona.

Jorge spent his last months alternating between a medical center in Rosario and home, supported by his wife Celia and children Rodrigo, Matias, and Maria Sol. He died early Saturday morning at Sanatorio Centro clinic in Rosario, Argentina.

Jorge Messi was pivotal in shaping Lionel's career, starting from his early days at Newell's Old Boys to his rise at FC Barcelona from 2004. He served as Lionel's primary representative, negotiating contracts and managing commercial arrangements.

FC Barcelona expressed gratitude for Jorge's trust during Lionel's formative years. The Messi family had kept Jorge's illness private until confirming it during the recent World Cup.

He is survived by his wife and children, including Lionel Messi.