Jorge Messi, father and agent of football legend Lionel Messi, dies at 68

Jorge Messi, the father and longtime agent of football superstar Lionel Messi, has passed away at the age of 68 in Rosario, Argentina. He reportedly died on Friday, August 7, 2026, or early Saturday, August 8, 2026, following a prolonged illness.

Jorge Messi was a monumental figure in his son's career, instrumental in guiding Lionel from his early days, including his crucial move to FC Barcelona for growth treatment. He remained a key advisor and representative throughout Lionel's professional life, from his time at Barcelona to Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Miami.

The news has prompted an outpouring of condolences from across the football world, with clubs like Newell's Old Boys, where Lionel began his career, and the Argentine Football Association expressing their sympathies to the Messi family. Concerns about his health had become public during the recent 2026 World Cup.