Newell’s and global football mourn Jorge Messi, father of Lionel

Jorge Messi, the 68‑year‑old father of Lionel Messi, died yesterday night in a clinic in Rosario after several days of illness, a loss that has shaken the football world. Newell’s Old Boys, the first professional club of Leo, issued a statement expressing deep sorrow.

Newell’s Old Boys was not only the club where Lionel began his senior career, it also hosted Jorge and his elder son Rodrigo in its youth divisions, linking three generations to the same institution.

The club’s communiqué read, "The Club Atlético Newell’s Old Boys says farewell with profound grief to Jorge Messi, who passed away at 68 in Rosario. Recognised leproso fan, businessman and father of the Argentine captain Lionel Andrés Messi. Thank you for teaching him to love these colours. Until forever, leproso," translating the Spanish tribute into English.

At the Bella Vista training ground, where Lionel trained and played before moving to Barcelona at age 13, a red‑black flag flies at half‑mast in honour of Jorge Messi while the 20th round of the AFA juvenile championship between Newell’s and Unión de Santa Fe proceeds.

The Liga Profesional de Fútbol also posted a message with a photo of Leo and his father celebrating the 2022 Qatar World Cup title, writing, "In this hard moment of saying goodbye to Jorge Messi, the LPF community and football send love and embrace his family. Strength, Leo!".

CONMEBOL added its condolences, stating, "CONMEBOL deeply regrets the death of Jorge Messi, father of the Argentine footballer Lionel Messi. We accompany Lionel, his family, friends and loved ones with respect and affection in this moment of profound sorrow. May he rest in peace."

Beyond the public statements, the club highlighted Jorge’s lifelong support for Lionel, describing him as the pillar who, together with his wife Celia Cuccittini, guided the captain from his early days in Malvinas to global glory. The message embraced Celia, Rodrigo, Matías and María Sol, underscoring the family’s grief.