The family’s statement came two days after an emotional Messi wiped away tears during the World Cup match between Argentina and Algeria.
Published June 18, 2026
Lionel Messi’s father is recovering from health problems and is “developing well,” his family said in a statement.
The family said Thursday that Jorge was “under medical observation” and asked for privacy. The nature of the health problem was not disclosed.
Speculation about Jorge’s health intensified after Lionel wiped tears on his shirt after scoring Argentina’s first goal at the World Cup against Algeria last Tuesday.
“Tears after the first goal? I was having a difficult time. It had nothing to do with football. Those feelings were caused by that,” Messi said. “I would like to thank my teammates, coaching staff and national team for helping me.”
The family statement released by Messi’s media office came on the same day that reports of Jorge’s death spread in Argentina.
“At times like this, we ask for responsibility, prudence and humanity,” the family said. “Personal health and the peace of mind of loved ones should not be the subject of speculation or irresponsible media attention.”
Jorge Messi played a key role in his son’s career, acting as his son’s agent and managing his off-field business affairs.
He accompanied a young Messi to Barcelona in the early 2000s for a tryout with La Masia, the Spanish club’s youth wing.
The father negotiated Messi’s contract with Barcelona and subsequent moves to Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Miami, while also managing his son’s image rights and several investments in real estate, hotels and restaurants.
In 2016, Messi and his father were convicted in Spain of tax evasion charges, but were spared prison sentences because their sentences were less than two years.
Messi, who is waiting with his teammates at Argentina’s base camp in Kansas City for Monday’s second group game against Austria in Dallas, said his family would like to express their “heartfelt gratitude for the outpouring of love, respect and concern.”
“We ask that the privacy and confidentiality of Jorge and his entire family be respected during this process,” the statement said.
Argentina continues its title defense on Monday in Group J against Austria.
