Lionel Messi’s dad Jorge dies aged 68 as tributes pour in from the soccer world
Lionel Messi’s father and agent has died aged 68 after suffering from illness during his son’s World Cup campaign and tributes have poured in
Jorge Messi has died(Image: Jean Catuffe/Getty Images)
Lionel Messi’s dad, Jorge, has died aged 68. The football icon’s father had undergone a battle with illness that impacted Messi during the World Cup.
La Nacion reports that he passed away in the city of Rosario after his condition worsened in recent days Argentina star Messi was spotted crying during the tournament.
“Why was I crying? It had absolutely nothing to do with football. I have had a few difficult days,” Messi said.
Jorge Messi was his son’s agent(Image: Getty Images)
A subsequent statement read: “The Messi family wishes to inform you that Jorge Messi is currently dealing with health problems. He is currently under medical supervision and is recovering well.
“Given the reports, rumours and speculation that have been circulating in recent hours, the family wishes to express its deep concern about the lack of sensitivity, respect and discretion with which some people have treated a strictly private family matter.”
Messi senior was his son’s agent, who helped guide the Barcelona icon’s career from the background.
Argentina’s Lionel Messi (L) and his father Jorge Messi (R) arrive at the Islas Malvinas airport in Rosario, Santa Fe province, Argentina, on July 13, 2021, after making his visa arrangements in the US Embassy to travel to Miami on vacation. (Photo by STR / AFP) (Photo by STR/AFP via Getty Images)
Messi’s hometown club of Newell’s Old Boys released a statement: “Club Atlético Newell’s Old Boys bids farewell with deep sorrow and grief to Jorge Messi, who passed away at the age of 68 in the city of Rosario.
“Recognised leproso fan, businessman, and father of the Argentine national team captain, Lionel Andrés Messi. Jorge was the pillar and the person who supported with vision, rigour, and affection the career of the greatest player of all time alongside his wife, Celia Cuccittini.
“His constant companionship and behind-the-scenes leadership were essential in backing every step of Lionel, from his beginnings at Malvinas to the pinnacle of world football glory. Thank you for teaching him to love these colours.
“The Board of Directors, members, athletes, and the entire leprosa family embrace with affection Celia, Lionel, Rodrigo, Matías, and María Sol, and all their loved ones and close ones in this difficult moment. Farewell forever, leproso.”
UNICEF Argentina said: “We regret the passing of Jorge Messi, father of our Goodwill Ambassador Lionel Messi and a person always committed to the rights of boys and girls and a benefactor of @unicef
“We accompany Celia, his children, his family, friends, and colleagues in this difficult moment.”
