Jorge Messi, father and longtime representative of Argentine soccer icon Lionel Messi, passed away Saturday August 8th 2026, at the age of 68, according to Sanatorio Centro, the medical center in Rosario, Argentina, where he had been receiving medical treatment.
Dr. Carlos Mackey, the hospital’s medical director, confirmed that Messi died in the early hours of Saturday morning. Out of respect for the family’s privacy, he said no additional information about the cause of death would be disclosed.
Jorge Messi played a central role throughout his son’s extraordinary football career, remaining by Lionel’s side through some of the most significant moments of his journey. He was there during Messi’s historic years at Barcelona, his difficult departure from the club, and his subsequent moves to Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Miami.
He also witnessed the highs and lows of Messi’s more than two decades with the Argentine national team, including the team’s triumphs and disappointments on the world stage.
The Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), the governing body of Spanish football, also expressed its condolences, sending its “love and affection to Lionel and his loved ones in these moments of deep sorrow” following Jorge Messi’s death.
The news comes just weeks after the Messi family publicly addressed concerns about Jorge Messi’s health during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. At the time, the family confirmed that he was undergoing medical monitoring for a health issue and said he was “recovering and progressing favorably.”
It remains unclear whether his death was connected to the health problems previously reported.
A private funeral service was held in Rosario on Sunday, 9 August 2026, attended by Lionel Messi and close family members.
