Jorge Messi, the father of football star Lionel Messi, has died at the age of 68. Jorge died in a hospital in Rosario, Argentina, after a period of ill health. Reports of his death came on August 8. He was said to have died late on August 7 at about 10 p.m. local time. The news has brought fresh grief to Lionel Messi and his family. Jorge played a key role in his son's life and career. He was close to Lionel from his early days in football. Newell's Old Boys, the club where Lionel Messi spent part of his youth career, paid tribute to Jorge after news of his death. The club praised his role in supporting Lionel's rise as a player. The club said Jorge backed his son's career with care and a clear view of his goals. His support began when Lionel was a young player in Rosario. Jorge was more than Messi's father. He was also an important figure in the business side of his son's career. For many years, he helped guide Lionel through key stages of his rise in world football. Lionel Messi grew up in Rosario before moving to Spain as a young player. He later became one of the most known players in the game. His career has included major titles with Barcelona, Paris Saint Germain and Inter Miami. Jorge remained a key part of that journey. He was often seen with Lionel during major moments in his career. His health had also been a concern in recent months. During the 2026 World Cup, it was reported that Jorge was receiving medical care. Lionel had also spoken about personal matters affecting his focus. He said issues away from football had made it hard to give his full attention to the MLS season with Inter Miami and his plans for the World Cup. The emotional impact was clear during the World Cup. Messi became tearful after scoring his first goal of the tournament against Algeria. His reaction showed how much was taking place away from the pitch. Jorge's death now adds another major personal loss for the football star. Messi has often spoken about the role his family played in his career. His move from Argentina to Spain at a young age changed his life. His family supported him through that move and the challenges that followed. His father stayed close as Lionel moved through youth football and into the top level of the sport. Jorge's role became even more important as Lionel built a global career. He helped with career matters and stood beside his son during many major moments. Jorge Messi dies at 68 after years of being a major figure in Lionel Messi's life and career. His death marks a deeply personal moment for the football star. Newell's Old Boys was among the first football clubs to publicly honor Jorge after the news broke. The club has a special link to the Messi family because Lionel spent part of his youth there. The Messi family has not yet made a detailed public statement about Jorge's death. The loss comes during a major year for Lionel Messi. He remains a central figure for Inter Miami and continues to play at the highest level. For Messi, however, the focus is now on his family and the loss of his father. Jorge's influence on Lionel's journey will remain part of the story of one of football's greatest careers. From Rosario to the biggest stages in world football, his support was a constant part of Lionel's path.