Jorge Messi, the father of Argentine footballer Lionel Messi, died on Friday evening at a clinic in Rosario at the age of 68. News portal Infobae was the first to report his death, which was also reported by sports outlet Ole.
His death follows months of medical care for a complex health issue disclosed in January, which required consultations with specialists in Argentina and the United States. Sources close to the player said Lionel Messi directly helped coordinate detailed clinical tests with trusted doctors. In June, the Messi family issued a statement saying Jorge Messi was recovering under medical supervision.
Support in career and World Cup
Jorge Messi played a central role in his son's football career from an early age, guiding his youth career and moving with him to Spain to facilitate medical treatment in his childhood. He remained a constant support throughout his professional career.
At this year's World Cup, Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick in Argentina's 3-0 victory against Algeria. After that match, Messi cried due to his father's health. Quoted by news outlet La Opinion, Messi said he cried for a reason completely unrelated to sports after experiencing difficult days, thanking his teammates for standing by him, supporting him, and giving him strength.
Messi went on to lead Argentina to a runner-up finish at the tournament, where his team lost 0-1 to Spain after extra time in the final.
