Inter Miami and Argentina forward Lionel Messi’s father, Jorge Messi, has died at 68. The former Newell’s Old Boys player, who was also his son’s agent, passed away Friday at a hospital in his native Rosario, Argentina, after a prolonged illness. The Messi family kept the situation private until confirming that he was "going through a health situation" during the World Cup this summer.

After scoring in Argentina’s opener against Algeria, Lionel said his emotions during and after the match "had nothing to do with football." He added, "I have been through some difficult, complicated days… I am thankful for the support I have received from my teammates and the staff during this time." A week later, the family released a statement that the father was under medical supervision and recovering favorably.

Jorge is survived by his wife, Celia, and his four children: Lionel, his two older brothers Rodrigo and Matías, and his younger sister María Sol. Newell’s Old Boys paid tribute, calling him a renowned supporter, businessman and the father of the captain of the Argentina national team, Lionel Messi. He worked in a steel factory before moving to Europe when Messi joined Barcelona’s academy in 2000, and later managed his career across Barcelona, Paris Saint‑Germain či Inter Miami.

Lionel became Barca’s record appearance‑maker and goal scorer, winning the Ballon d’Or eight times and helping Argentina win the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Though Jorge could not attend the North American tournament, Lionel spent time in Rosario after the final before returning to Inter Miami.