Jorge Messi, the father and longtime agent of Argentina captain Lionel Andrés Messi, has died at the age of 68 in the city of Rosario. Argentine football club Newell's Old Boys announced his passing on August 8, 2026, releasing an emotional statement to bid farewell to their lifelong supporter.
The club expressed deep sadness and grief over the death of Jorge Messi, describing him as a businessman, a former worker from Rosario, and a recognized and loyal fan of Newell's Old Boys, known by the nickname La Lepra.
Newell's Old Boys highlighted the fundamental role Jorge Messi played alongside his wife, Celia Cuccittini, in supporting and guiding the career of their son from his early days in youth football at Malvinas to the top of world football.
The club stated that Jorge Messi provided foresight, consistency, and love while remaining away from the public spotlight throughout his son's journey. Newell's Old Boys also thanked him for teaching Lionel Messi to love the team's colors before the player moved to Barcelona at age 13.
Tributes and Support from Newell's Old Boys
The board of directors, members, athletes, and the broader community at Newell's Old Boys extended their love and support to Celia Cuccittini, Lionel Messi, Rodrigo Messi, Matías Messi, and María Sol Messi, along with their extended family and friends. The club concluded its tribute by wishing Jorge Messi a good journey.
Jorge Messi worked as a mentor and agent for Lionel Messi throughout his career. He notably took his 13-year-old son by the hand and agreed to his first contract on a paper napkin, a moment that altered the history of global football.
The connection between the Messi family and Newell's Old Boys remains central to the city of Rosario, which served as the star's first football home. Beyond Newell's Old Boys, tributes and farewell messages for Jorge Messi were also offered across the football world, including statements from Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Argentina.
