Jorge Messi, Lionel Messi's father and agent, dies at 68

Jorge Messi was born on April 24, 1958, in Rosario, Argentina — the same city where he died on August 7, 2026, at the age of 68, after a months-long battle with cancer. As Lionel Messi's father and longtime agent, his health had already been a source of concern for the family during the 2026 World Cup.

Far more than just a father

Jorge Messi was much more than a parent — he managed his son's entire career, from his early days at Newell's Old Boys to his move to Inter Miami in 2023. According to club owner Jorge Mas, he played a central role in the nearly three-year negotiation that brought the deal together, personally informing Barcelona president Joan Laporta of his son's decision to leave the Catalan club.

Football pays its respects

News of his death prompted a wave of tributes across the football world. Ahead of their Leagues Cup match against Monterrey, Inter Miami held a minute's silence for their absent captain's father, displaying Jorge Messi's name on the stadium screens and having players wear black armbands, while fans unfurled "Fuerza Leo" banners in the 10th minute — Lionel Messi's shirt number.

Messages of support also came from world champions Argentina, Barcelona, Real Madrid, CONMEBOL and Newell's Old Boys, the club where Messi came through as a youth player.

Key facts

• Jorge Messi was born on April 24, 1958 in Rosario, and died there on August 7, 2026, aged 68, after a long illness.
• He had been Lionel Messi's father and agent since the very start of his career.
• He played a key role in his son's 2023 move to Inter Miami.
• Football paid unanimous tribute, from Inter Miami to the Argentine national team.