It was June 2026 when Argentina defeated Algeria 3-0 in the opening match at the World Cup and Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick. The Argentinian captain broke down in tears after the game and when asked about it replied that it was something “completely unrelated to football. I went through some difficult days, but I'm grateful to the entire delegation and my teammates because they were always by my side, giving me a lot of strength to help me get through it”. It was later revealed that the real reason was his father’s illness. Jorge Messi was undergoing medical treatment for an undisclosed illness and Leo had a hard time dealing with it. Unfortunately, it was reported today that his father died at the age of 68.Lionel's Messi father Jorge Messi has passed away at the age of 68 after battling a long illness.Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Messi family. Rest in Peace! ❤🕊 pic.twitter.com/gmoJNGZR1E— BarçaTimes (@BarcaTimes) August 8, 2026 Rumors started to spread today and the first report came through a reliable Argentina’s Infobae, but nobody was prepared to confirm it just yet, simply because it happened before. On June 18th this year, Messi’s family was forced to release a public statement regarding Jorge’s apparent death.“In light of speculation that has circulated in recent hours, the family wishes to express its deep discomfort with the lack of sensitivity, respect, and discretion with which some people have treated what is strictly a private family matter. The family also wishes to clarify that only his closest relatives have real and accurate information regarding Jorge's condition. He is currently under medical observation, recovering and progressing favourably within his current condition. At times like these, we ask for responsibility, prudence and humanity. A person’s health and the peace of mind of their loved ones should not be the subject of speculation or irresponsible media interest” the family said in a statement.Bizarre! Argentine TV presenter falsely announces Messi's father dead, then resignsBut nearly two months later, the sad news came in for Lionel Messi. The former Barcelona forward was very attached to his father, who was crucial for his football success, especially in the early days, when the player moved from Argentina and signed for Barcelona. Jorge decided to travel with his son and help him during the firsts few months. It was a tough time for Messi, as he was diagnoses with Growth Hormone Deficiency years earlier and had to take growth hormone injections. Barcelona offered to pay for them when he moved to the academy at the age of just 13, and his father was there all the way. In later years, when Lionel became the worldwide star, Jorge was acting as his manager.##NAJAVA_MECA_9883888##
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