Lionel Messi’s father, Jorge Messi, dies aged 68 after a prolonged illness, multiple outlets report. Yahoo Sports and others describe him as a key figure in Messi’s life and career, serving as an early guide and later working as his agent. Several reports also note that Messi bid farewell to his father, and that Jorge is survived by his wife, Lionel’s siblings, and other family members.

The reports provide overlapping details about Jorge’s role and personal background. Yahoo Sports, the London Evening Standard, and The Mirror describe him as Lionel’s agent and long-time adviser, including involvement during Messi’s move from Argentina to Barcelona. The Mirror and New York Post add that Jorge was ill for a significant period and died in Rosario, while New York Post says no cause of death is immediately provided in their account.

Some outlets also reference earlier health-related reporting. Free Press Journal says there were false claims of his death in June, which the family rejected while stating Jorge was receiving medical care and recovering under supervision. Yahoo Sports similarly highlights that Lionel dismissed inaccurate reports during the World Cup regarding his father’s health.