Real Madrid mourn the death of Lionel Messi’s father Jorge, aged 68

Real Madrid have expressed their condolences to Lionel Messi following the death of his father, Jorge Messi, at the age of 68.

Jorge Messi died on Friday evening after a long illness. His death was announced on Saturday, with Real Madrid issuing an official statement to pay tribute to the father of the Inter Miami forward.

“Real Madrid, its president and board of directors, deeply regret the death of Jorge Messi, father of Lionel Messi,” the club said.

It added: “The club extends its deepest condolences to Lionel Messi, his family and all his loved ones.”

Jorge played a significant role throughout his son’s football career, managing his affairs and overseeing matters away from the pitch from Lionel’s earliest years. He was also closely involved in the Argentine’s journey towards becoming a professional footballer in Europe.

When Lionel was a youth player at Newell’s Old Boys, Jorge was responsible for arranging the medical treatment his son needed. He later accompanied Lionel to Barcelona during the move to Spain, while Lionel’s mother remained in Rosario to organise the affairs of the rest of the family.

Jorge continued to support his son throughout his career, but generally stayed away from public attention. He rarely appeared in the media or gave interviews, preferring to focus on his family and provide support behind the scenes.

He leaves behind his wife, Celia Cuccittini, and their children Lionel, Rodrigo, Matias and Maria Sol, as well as his grandchildren and other members of the family.

The tribute from Real Madrid came despite the club’s historic rivalry with Barcelona, where Lionel established himself as one of the defining players in the club’s history. The statement focused on the personal loss suffered by the Messi family and offered sympathy to the player and those close to him.

Jorge’s involvement in Lionel’s career began long before his son became an established professional. He helped manage the practical and medical challenges faced during Lionel’s development at Newell’s Old Boys and then remained alongside him during his move to Spain.

For much of the years that followed, Jorge maintained a low profile while helping his son manage his professional affairs away from football. His contribution to Lionel’s career was largely conducted outside the spotlight, with his support continuing through the various stages of the player’s career.

Real Madrid’s message concluded its expression of sympathy to Lionel Messi and his family after the death of Jorge, who was 68.