Jorge Messi, father of soccer legend Lionel Messi, dies at age 68

Jorge Messi, a constant presence in the stands at his son Lionel Messi’s matches, has died at age 68 after an illness, according to a statement from the clinic that treated him.

Jorge Messi, a constant presence in the stands at his son Lionel Messi’s matches, has died at age 68 after an illness, according to a statement from the clinic that treated him.

The Argentine businessman worked as a steel executive and managed his son’s career for decades. His illness became a topic of discussion during the 2026 World Cup, when his family acknowledged a health situation as Lionel Messi competed.

Argentina lost to Spain in the July 19 final. Lionel Messi, 39, had attributed his emotional displays early in the tournament to a family situation.

Lionel Messi and his father, Jorge Messi, in Barcelona in 2016.Joan Cros / NurPhoto via Getty Images fileThe medical facility, Sanatorio Centro, announced Jorge Messi’s death through its director but declined to disclose the nature of his illness.

He died around 2 a.m. on Saturday, according to the statement.