Tributes Pour In for Jorge Messi, Father of Football Icon Lionel Messi

A Heartfelt Farewell to Jorge Messi

Buenos Aires, Argentina - On Saturday, the Argentine Football Association (AFA) conveyed its heartfelt condolences following the passing of Jorge Messi, the father of renowned football player Lionel Messi.

Jorge Messi, who was 68 years old, had been undergoing treatment at a medical facility in Rosario, as reported by a local news outlet.

In a post on X, the AFA expressed its support for Lionel Messi and his family during this challenging time, stating, "Stay strong, Leo Messi and family. We are with you in this difficult moment. We send you our most heartfelt embrace."

FC Barcelona, where Lionel Messi played from 2004 until 2021, also shared its condolences, recognizing Jorge Messi's significant role in guiding his son's early football journey. The club expressed gratitude for Jorge's dedication and support, extending their sympathies to the Messi family.

In their message on X, FC Barcelona's President and Board of Directors stated, "We express our deepest condolences on the passing of Jorge Messi, father of former Barca player and legend Lionel Messi. We thank Jorge Messi for his commitment to our Club, for entrusting us with the beginnings and the most glorious years of his son Leo's football career. May he rest in peace."

Jorge Messi was not only a father but also a pivotal figure in shaping Lionel's football career. After Lionel's rise in the sport, Jorge took on the role of his son's agent and strategic advisor, having previously worked as a supervisor at a steel factory.

He played a crucial part in Lionel's early days at Newell's Old Boys and was instrumental in facilitating his move to Spain at the age of 13 to join Barcelona's youth academy. The Catalan club also supported Lionel's treatment for a growth hormone deficiency, which was vital for his physical development, allowing him to reach a height of 1.70 meters.

Jorge is survived by his wife Celia Cuccittini and their four children: Lionel, Rodrigo, Matias, and Maria Sol.