The quiet pillar of Lionel Messi’s rise: the world says goodbye to Jorge
Jorge Messi, the quiet foundation behind every step of Lionel Messi’s career, has died. The news of his passing drew an outpouring of grief from the sporting world, football icons, and those closest to the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner, who united in a virtual embrace to honour the man who stood by him through it all.
CONMEBOL expressed its deepest sorrow at the death of Jorge Messi, father of Argentina international Lionel Messi. The South American football governing body offered its condolences to Lionel, his family, friends, and loved ones during this time of profound sorrow, concluding with a simple wish: "May he rest in peace."
Club Atlético Newell’s Old Boys also mourned the loss of Jorge Messi, who died at the age of 68 in the city of Rosario. The club described him as a lifelong fan of Newell’s, a businessman, and the father of Argentina captain Lionel Andrés Messi. It praised him as the pillar and guiding presence behind his son’s journey.
The Argentine Football Association (LPF) joined the global chorus of tributes, bidding farewell to Jorge Messi with love and solidarity. It urged strength for Lionel during the difficult farewell, sharing a message of support for the family and loved ones in their grief.
Jorge Messi’s role extended beyond family life; he was a devoted follower of Newell’s Old Boys, a club deeply embedded in his identity. His lifelong connection to the club and his unwavering support for his son’s career made him a figure of quiet admiration in Argentine football circles.
The outpouring of tributes underscored the respect and affection held for Jorge Messi across football. From South American football’s governing body to Argentina’s domestic league, the messages reflected a shared recognition of his quiet but indispensable influence on one of the game’s greatest careers.
Lionel Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, has often spoken of the central role his father played in his life and career. The global football community’s response to Jorge’s death highlighted the depth of that bond, with figures from every corner of the sport pausing to acknowledge his legacy.