Lionel Messi’s father, Jorge, dead at 68 weeks after 2026 World Cup

Argentina star Lionel Messi’s father, Jorge, has died at age 68 after battling an illness that came about prior to the 2026 World Cup.

Messi’s father reportedly passed away Friday evening in the family’s native Rosario, Argentina, per several Argentinian and Spanish media outlets.

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Jorge Messi’s illness and cause of death are unknown at this point. However, Messi’s father seemingly dealt with the ailment for some time and it became a talking point during the World Cup.

The Messi family gave a statement last month revealing that Jorge was ill. Conflicting reports offered news of optimism at the World Cup while he was “under medical monitoring.”

Former Argentina teammate Juan Pablo Sorin conducted an interview with Messi back in June, where the iconic player revealed that he was dealing with an emotional family situation.

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“The truth is that for the family more than anything,” Messi said in the exchange. “Because, well, it’s always there, it’s always there. Now we are in a difficult moment. So many things came together, but obviously also because of them – a spectacular group that supports me – it makes me happy.”

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Remembering Messi’s legendary father

Argentina’s Lionel Messi with the runners-up medal as he looks dejected after the match. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters/Vincent Carchietta Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters (Reuters)

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Jorge Messi helped bring his son to Barcelona as a young player after growing up in Argentina. Messi’s career has since spanned the globe and includes a 2022 World Cup win in Qatar.

Argentina’s attempt at capturing a second World Cup title in the Messi era fell short in the United States last month. The South American country lost 1-0 against Spain in the final at MetLife Stadium.

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The Messi family legacy carries on with Jorge’s wife Cecilia, as well as their children Lionel, Maria Sol, Matias and Rodrigo.

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