Jorge Messi, the father and longtime agent of Argentine football icon Lionel Messi, has died at the age of 68 following a prolonged illness.
The news was confirmed by the South American football governing body CONMEBOL, the Argentina National Football Team and the Messi family in a statement provided to Reuters.
"CONMEBOL deeply regrets the passing of Jorge Messi, father of Argentine footballer Lionel Messi," the federation said in a statement translated from Spanish on social media. "We accompany Lionel, his family, friends, and loved ones with respect and affection in this moment of profound grief. May he rest in peace."
The Argentina National Football Team also expressed its condolences to the Messi family.
"Sending our deepest strength to Leo Messi and his family. We're with you during this difficult time and sending you our warmest embrace."
For much of Lionel Messi's extraordinary football career, Jorge Messi remained one of the most important figures away from the spotlight.
He played a central role in managing his son's professional career, helping guide him from his early days in Rosario to becoming one of the most decorated and recognisable footballers in the world.
Jorge was particularly involved during the formative years of Messi's career, when the young Argentine left his hometown and moved to Spain to pursue his footballing ambitions.
His role extended beyond that of an agent. He was a constant presence in Lionel's personal and professional journey, supporting him through the pressures that came with becoming a global sporting icon.
One of the most memorable images of Jorge Messi came after Argentina's triumph at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
Lionel Messi finally lifted the World Cup trophy with Argentina after years of international heartbreak. Jorge was seen on the pitch alongside his son as Argentina celebrated one of the greatest achievements in the country's football history.
Messi and Argentina finished second at this year's World Cup after the football great led his country to the world title in 2022.
Newell's Old Boys, the Argentine club where Lionel Messi began playing football, also paid tribute to Jorge.
"Jorge was the pillar of strength and the person who, along with his wife, Celia Cuccittini, supported the career of the greatest player of all time with vision, rigor, and affection," the club said.
"His constant support and behind-the-scenes leadership were fundamental in backing every step of Lionel's journey, from his beginnings in the Falklands to the pinnacle of world football glory.
"Thank you for teaching him to love these colors," the statement concluded.
Jorge spent his final months between a medical centre in Rosario and his home, surrounded by his wife Celia and their children Rodrigo, Matías and María Sol.
His death marks a deeply personal loss for Lionel Messi, whose extraordinary career was shaped not only by his talent on the pitch but also by the family that supported him from his earliest days.
For a player who has conquered almost every major honour football has to offer, Jorge Messi was one of the people who stood beside him long before the world knew his name.