Jorge Messi, Father and Longtime Agent of Lionel Messi, Dies at 68

Jorge Messi, father and longtime agent of football legend Lionel Messi, has died at the age of 68 in Rosario, Argentina, following a long-term illness, according to reports. The passing occurred weeks after the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where Messi’s emotional struggles during his father’s declining health drew widespread attention. Jorge Messi, who spent his final months alternating between a medical clinic in Rosario and his home, died around 10:00 PM local time, according to sources.

Messi’s return to action with Inter Miami after the World Cup included a standout performance in the Leagues Cup, where he scored two goals, including a volley in the 11th minute, and provided an assist. His display earned praise from coach Guillermo Hoyos, who likened his technique to “artistic perfection.” However, the football world shifted focus to mourning the loss of Jorge Messi, whose role in shaping his son’s career spanned decades.

Jorge Messi’s influence on Lionel’s journey began in the early 2000s, when he orchestrated his son’s move to Barcelona. A pivotal moment came in December 2000, when he signed the initial agreement on a napkin with Barcelona’s Carles Rexach, securing Lionel’s future in European football. His work as an agent extended to later moves, including Lionel’s transfer to Inter Miami, while maintaining a behind-the-scenes presence throughout his career.

Tributes poured in from across the sports world, including a heartfelt message from tennis star Rafael Nadal, who wrote: “Dear Leo, I can’t imagine the pain you must be going through. I’m sending you all my love and my condolences to you and your entire family during this such difficult time. Rest in peace, Jorge.” Newell’s Old Boys, Messi’s boyhood club, honored him with a social media tribute and flew the club flag at half mast in his memory. FC Barcelona also expressed condolences, acknowledging his role in “entrusting us with the beginnings and the most glorious years of his son Leo’s football career.”

The circumstances of Jorge Messi’s illness remained largely undisclosed, though Argentine media described it as a long-term condition. His family, including wife Cecilia Cuccittini and children Rodrigo, Matías, and María Sol, navigated the emotional aftermath. Lionel Messi, who reunited with his father after the World Cup, has not yet confirmed his participation in Inter Miami’s upcoming Leagues Cup match against Monterrey.

Jorge Messi’s legacy endures as both a strategic advisor and a familial pillar, his impact cemented in the story of one of football’s greatest players. As the sport mourns, the bond between father and son remains a defining chapter in Messi’s journey from Rosario to global stardom.