Jorge Messi, the father and long-time representative of Argentine football star Lionel Messi, passed away on Saturday at the age of 68. He had been receiving care at Sanatorio Centro, a medical facility in Rosario, Argentina. Dr. Carlos Mackey, the hospital’s medical director, confirmed that Jorge Messi died in the early hours of the morning, adding that no further details regarding the cause of death would be released, respecting the family’s privacy.
Tributes have been extended from across the football world following the news. The Argentine Football Association (AFA) expressed its profound sadness and regret at the passing of Jorge Messi, acknowledging him as the father of their captain and emblem, Lionel Messi. The AFA conveyed its support to the entire family during this difficult time. Similarly, the Argentine national team shared a message of support, accompanied by an image reading “Fuerza Leo,” indicating their solidarity with Messi’s family.
Community and Club Tributes
Newell’s Old Boys, the Rosario-based club where Lionel Messi played during his youth before moving to Europe, also confirmed Jorge Messi’s passing and paid tribute on social media. The club described him as a devoted “leproso fan” (as Newell’s fans are known), a businessman, and the father of the Argentine national team captain. They highlighted Jorge’s vision, rigor, and affection in underpinning Lionel’s career alongside his wife, Celia Cuccittini. The club further noted that his constant accompaniment and leadership behind the scenes were fundamental to supporting Lionel’s journey, from his early days in Malvinas to achieving global football glory, and thanked him for instilling a love for the club’s colours.
The South American Football Confederation (Conmebol), to which the Argentine national team belongs, also mourned the loss and sent a message of support to Lionel and the entire Messi family. The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), an organization for which Messi serves as a goodwill ambassador, extended its condolences. UNICEF described Jorge Messi as a person consistently committed to the rights of children and a benefactor of the organization.
Inter Miami’s Condolences and Match Tribute
Inter Miami, Lionel Messi’s current club, observed a moment of silence before their Leagues Cup match against Monterrey on Saturday night. This tribute honoured Jorge Messi, who was also his son’s agent. His name was displayed on screens at Nu Stadium during the minute-long silence, and Miami players wore black armbands in commemoration. In the 10th minute of the match, corresponding to Messi’s jersey number, fans chanted and displayed flags, including one that read “Fuerza, Leo” (Stay Strong, Leo).
Lionel Messi was not present at the match, having arrived by plane in Rosario on Saturday night. The Argentina team’s statement announcing Jorge Messi’s death indicated that the football legend would attend a private memorial service. Miami midfielder Rodrigo de Paul captained the team for the match and honoured Messi by wearing his number 10 jersey, which he unveiled to the crowd after scoring a goal in the 32nd minute. The club also posted a message of condolence on X on Saturday afternoon, stating, “Our hearts are with our captain, Leo, and the entire Messi family.”
Former Miami mayor Francis Suarez also shared his condolences on X, expressing his deepest sympathies to Leo Messi and his family. Suarez mentioned having had the privilege of knowing and working with Jorge, describing him as a man of his word. He added that Miami has embraced the Messi family as its own and mourns with them. The Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) also sent its love and affection to Lionel and his loved ones during this time of deep sorrow. Jorge Messi was a pivotal figure in his son’s football journey, from his time with Barcelona to his transfers to PSG and Inter Miami, and his experiences with the Argentine national team over more than 20 years.
Source: cbsnews.com
