Messi's Father Has Passed Away, Newell's Old Boys and Real Madrid Express Their Condolences

Sad news has come from Lionel Messi's family. Jorge Messi, father of the global football megastar, passed away at a medical clinic in Rosario, Argentina. His death has drawn widespread attention across the world of football, including from Messi's boyhood club Newell's Old Boys, as well as the player's long-standing rival Real Madrid. 

Jorge breathed his last on Friday 7 August evening local time, or Saturday WIB, after receiving medical care over an extended period. The 68 year old man passed away 

Newell's Old Boys conveyed their tribute to Jorge via social media. The club that formed a core part of Messi's upbringing honoured Jorge as both a loyal club supporter, and father to the Argentina national team captain.

"Club Atlético Newell's Old Boys bid farewell to Jorge Messi with deep grief, who passed away aged 68 in the city of Rosario. Jorge was a dedicated fan of Atlético, an entrepreneur, and father of Argentina national team captain Lionel Andrés Messi," the club posted on their official X account.

Messages of condolence were also issued by Real Madrid. Despite the long history of rivalry with Messi during his tenure at Barcelona, the Spanish capital club released an official statement of mourning over Jorge's passing.

"Real Madrid CF, its president and entire board of management are deeply saddened upon receiving news of the death of Leo Messi's father, Jorge Messi," the club's official statement read.

"The club extends its condolences to Leo, his family, and all his loved ones. May he rest in peace."

According to reports from Marca, Jorge had been undergoing long-term treatment for his illness. Over recent months he alternated care between the Rosario medical facility and his private home.

Throughout his treatment, Jorge was accompanied by his wife Celia, along with their children Rodrigo, Matias, and Maria Sol.

The Key Figure Behind Messi's Career

For Lionel Messi, Jorge was never just a father. He was one of the most important figures in the player's entire career journey, from his early youth right through to reaching the absolute peak of world football.

Jorge stood beside Messi when his son first began building his professional career at Barcelona. For many years he also operated as Messi's agent, playing a central role in every major professional decision made across the megastar's career.

This unwavering support remained with Messi through his entire path to becoming one of the greatest footballers of all time.

Jorge's declining health had become a matter of public attention in recent months. Messi was seen crying after scoring his first goal for Argentina against Algeria in their opening 2026 World Cup fixture.

Messi's tears became a major talking point, after the player clarified his emotion was not connected to the match. Speaking at the post-game press conference, he confirmed he was going through "very difficult, complicated days".

Several days after that match, the Messi family publicly confirmed that Jorge was receiving ongoing medical treatment.

Messi had spent private time with his father after the World Cup, before returning to his club side Inter Miami. The Argentina captain had only been back in training with his club for approximately one week when the sad news emerged.

The passing of Jorge Messi is an immeasurable loss for Lionel Messi and his whole family. Behind the legendary career of the global megastar, Jorge was the man who walked beside Messi from his very first step into the world of football.