The father of soccer legend Lionel Messi has died at the age of 68.
Videos by Wide Open Country
Numerous outlets in Argentina and Spain have reported the death of Jorge Messi following a prolonged period of illness.
Jorge reportedly passed away in his hometown of Rosario, Argentina, at around 10 p.m. local time on Friday.
Soccer Icon Lionel Messi's Father Dies at 68
Jorge's health had become the subject of increased attention in recent months, particularly during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Lionel Messi helped Argentina reach the final of the tournament before they suffered a 1-0 defeat to Spain.
During the competition, former Argentina teammate turned pundit Juan Pablo Sorin asked Messi about the emotion he had shown throughout the tournament.
Sorin asked Messi, "Tears for the family, for your family, and for this other family that is the National Team, right?"
To which the Argentine superstar responded, "Yes, yes... The truth is that for the family more than anything. 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,"
Shortly after the exchange, the Messi family released a statement clarifying Jorge's condition.
The statement said that Jorge was "under medical monitoring, recovering and evolving favorably within the condition he presents."
Jorge Messi Played Pivotal Role in Son's Career
Jorge leaves behind his wife, Celia, sons Lionel, Rodrigo and Matias, daughter Maria Sol and several grandchildren.
The Messi family has yet to publicly address his death.
Beyond being his father, Jorge played an instrumental role throughout Lionel's remarkable soccer career.
He served as his son's representative, handling negotiations and playing a central role in some of the biggest decisions of his career.
That included Messi's departure from Barcelona for Paris Saint-Germain in 2021 and his subsequent move to MLS side Inter Miami in 2023.
Jorge's influence stretched back much further. When Messi moved to Barcelona as a young player, his father remained alongside him in Spain while his mother stayed in Rosario to care for the rest of the family.
Now 39, Messi continues to compete at the highest level.
He scored eight goals at the 2026 World Cup to claim the Silver Boot and added four assists. Messi also received the Silver Ball as the tournament's second-best player.
