Jorge Messi's death at 68 casts shadow over Lionel Messi

Jorge Messi, the 68‑year‑old father of Argentine star Lionel Messi, died on Friday evening, 7 August, at 22:00 Argentine time in a clinic in Rosario, Argentine media reported, confirming the tragic loss that has stunned both Argentine and Spanish outlets.

Jorge Messi had been ill for an extended period, a fact that surfaced repeatedly in the press. During the WK 2026, staged across the Verenigde Staten, Canada and Mexico, his condition was monitored by medical staff. Earlier rumours of his possible death prompted a powerful statement from the Messi family, which denied the reports.

Vandaag, an update posted at 13:55 cited both Argentijnse and Spaanse media confirming that the 68‑year‑old Vader had passed away on Friday evening, 7 August, at 22:00 Argentine time in a clinic in Rosario. The announcement ended weeks of speculation about his health.

Lionel Messi skipped the Major League Soccer All‑Star Game to be with his father, having already featured twice for Inter Miami following Argentina’s loss in the World Cup final. In the 4‑2 victory over Mexican side Atlético San Luis, he scored two goals and provided an assist.

During the WK, the Messi family disclosed that Jorge was ill but did not reveal the nature of the disease. After Argentina’s 3‑0 opening match against Algeria, in which Lionel scored a hat‑trick, he spoke in an emotional interview about the challenging days he had endured.

Vader Jorge Messi also served as his son’s zaakwaarnemer, playing a pivotal role in managing Lionel’s football career.