Argentina captain Lionel Messi's father, Jorge Messi, passes away aged 68

Jorge Messi, father of Argentina icon Lionel Messi, passed away at age 68 at his hometown, Rosario, on Friday evening, August 7.

Messi was battling cancer and recently made an appearance during Argentina's opening World Cup game against Algeria.

The same game where G.O.A.T. Messi scored a hat trick and broke out in tears, who described the moment later, saying, “It had nothing to do with sports; I’ve been through some difficult and complicated days.”

Messi had been viewed as an instrumental in shaping son's soccer career, from accompanying him during his time as a teen until he achieved the G.O.A.T. level status.

According to local media reports, Mesis’ father was battling with pancreatic cancer.

The news about his serious health scare with cancer first surfaced during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Jorge managed his son’s football career as an advisor and was believed to be the mastermind behind his son’s move from Barcelona to PSG and later to Miami.

So far, the family has not released any statement.