Jorge Messi, Lionel Messi's father, died at 68 after a long illness. The Newell's Old Boys club highlighted his role as a pillar in Lionel's career, calling him 'the person who supported with vision, rigor and affection.' Barcelona also thanked him for 'embracing the beginnings of Leo's football career.'

Jorge stayed in Barcelona when the Messi family moved from Rosario in 2001, supporting Lionel from his youth at Malvinas to global stardom. His death sparked a false report during Argentina's World Cup opener, which the family condemned as insensitive. Celia Cuccittini, Lionel's mother, and siblings Rodrigo, Matias, and Maria Sol were mentioned in tributes.

The Argentine Football Association expressed solidarity, emphasizing Jorge's legacy. Inter Miami, where Lionel plays, noted his 'constant companionship' was vital. The false report led to the presenter's resignation, underscoring the family's distress over privacy breaches.