Lionel Messi Breaks Silence After His Dad’s Death at 68

Lionel Messi has shared an emotional tribute to his father, Jorge Messi, following his passing on August 7 in Rosario, Argentina. The football legend expressed his deep sorrow in a heartfelt Instagram post, which was made public on August 12, just five days after Jorge’s death. The loss comes as a profound blow to Messi, who had always credited his father as a significant influence on both his personal life and illustrious football career.

Jorge Messi, who died at the age of 68, played a crucial role as Lionel’s business agent throughout his career. Lionel recounted the close bond he shared with his father, describing how Jorge had been a constant presence in his life since his childhood. The emotional weight of Jorge’s absence was particularly felt during the recently concluded 2026 World Cup, where Jorge was unable to witness his son’s performance due to illness. Despite hopes that he would recover in time for the tournament, Jorge’s health deteriorated, leaving an unfillable void for the football icon.

In his poignant tribute, Messi reflected on their last conversations, recalling how his father had urged him to participate in the World Cup. “It was the first time you wouldn’t be there for a tournament,” Lionel recounted. He mentioned how he had hoped to reach the final match as a way for Jorge to see him play one last time. Unfortunately, despite his team’s success, Jorge was not there to witness their achievements. Lionel admitted that he felt his physical limits during the tournament were reached, hampering his ability to bring a lasting trophy home to his father.

Messi conveyed a sense of bewilderment at the void left by his father’s passing, sharing his feelings of uncertainty about his own future without Jorge’s guidance. “I played soccer, but now I have serious doubts about whether I’ll keep doing it for much longer,” he revealed. The depth of their relationship was underscored as Lionel contemplated the journey they had shared and lamented that it had cut short before they could finish it together.

The footballer concluded his tribute with a promise to keep his father’s memories alive, stating that Jorge would always be with him, particularly in how he raises his own children. This sentiment highlighted Jorge’s influence not only on Lionel’s life but also on how he intended to carry forward the lessons he had learned from his father to the next generation.

Reports indicate that Jorge Messi’s health had been in decline for some time before his death. In June, the Messi family had announced that he was recovering under medical observation, although they did not disclose the specifics of his condition. At that time, they expressed frustration over the sensitivity shown by the public regarding their family matters.

The family has received an outpouring of support in the wake of their loss. Lionel’s first professional club, Newell’s Old Boys, paid tribute to Jorge on social media, recognising him as a cornerstone of Lionel’s journey to becoming one of the greatest football players in history. The club’s heartfelt message praised Jorge as a pillar of strength who had guided Lionel through the various stages of his career.

In addition to the tributes from the football community, Lionel Messi’s emotions were visibly on the surface during the World Cup. He openly shed tears during Argentina’s opening match after scoring, attributing his emotional state to personal challenges he faced, separate from the sport itself. His teammates and the wider delegation rallied around him, showing their support during what was clearly a difficult time.

Ultimately, Jorge Messi’s legacy will continue through the values he imparted to his son and the cherished memories they created together. As Lionel navigates his grief, he will honour his father’s memory and teachings in every aspect of his life moving forward.