Lionel Messi's father and agent Jorge Messi dies at 68

Lionel Messi’s father and longtime agent, Jorge Messi, died on Thursday at the age of 68 after a prolonged illness, the family confirmed. Born in 1955 in Rosario, Argentina, Jorge Messi was a former semi‑professional footballer who later became the architect of his son’s professional career, negotiating contracts and endorsements that helped shape Messi into one of the sport’s most celebrated figures.

Messi released a brief statement on social media expressing gratitude for his father’s guidance and mourning the loss, while representatives of FC Barcelona and Paris Saint‑Germain also issued condolences. Jorge Messi’s death marks the end of a partnership that spanned more than two decades, during which he managed the player’s transfers, sponsorship deals and charitable initiatives. The football community has acknowledged his behind‑the‑scenes influence on the modern game.