Inter Miami CF has extended its deepest condolences to Lionel Messi following the passing of his father, Jorge Messi, who died in the early hours at the Sanatorio Centro in Rosario, Argentina, at the age of 68.
In a heartfelt tribute, the club shared a message on social media with a black background, symbolizing mourning, alongside the team's emblem and Messi's personal logo.
"Our thoughts are with our captain, Leo, and the entire Messi family," the club expressed on its Instagram story, demonstrating institutional support during one of the most challenging moments of the soccer star's life.
Messi was released from his obligation to play in the Leagues Cup match against Monterrey, allowing him to immediately travel to Argentina.
The captain departed from Fort Lauderdale, with Argentine media reporting his expected arrival in Rosario between 8:00 PM and 9:00 PM local time.
A Private Farewell
The wake was conducted privately.
Jorge Messi passed away at 2:00 AM. The Sanatorio Centro issued an official statement confirming his death, withholding the cause due to privacy concerns.
Reports from specialized media indicated he had suffered from a prolonged illness. During the World Cup in June 2026, the family had announced his improving condition, but it deteriorated in the weeks leading to his passing.
Global Football Community Mourns
The news sent shockwaves through the football world. CONMEBOL expressed its profound sorrow over the loss. The Argentine Football Association, headed by Claudio Tapia, lamented the passing of "the father of our captain and icon, Lionel Messi."
The Argentine national team posted a brief yet moving message: "Stay strong, Leo." Newell's Old Boys, a club tied to Jorge through his youth playing days and where Lionel began his journey, bid farewell with "deep sorrow and regret."
FC Barcelona also issued an official statement of condolences, recalling the family's historical connection to the Catalan club. Teams like Real Madrid, Boca Juniors, River Plate, and Rosario Central joined in the wave of sympathy.
In a gesture of respect, the AFA declared a minute of silence, black armbands, and flags at half-staff in all stadiums.
A Legacy Beyond Fatherhood
Jorge Messi was much more than the father of the world's greatest footballer. He was Lionel's first coach at Grandoli, Rosario's local club, his agent for over two decades, and the architect of an unprecedented career. Before Lionel's rise to fame, Jorge worked in a metal factory to support the family.
When Lionel was diagnosed with a growth hormone deficiency, Jorge moved the family to Barcelona to ensure his son received treatment and signed with the Catalan club.
From that point on, Jorge managed contracts, commercial deals, and public relations for his son, serving as his most trusted confidant off the field.
At the time of his father's passing, Lionel Messi was in Miami, having renewed his contract with Inter Miami until 2028 in October 2025. The club, having won the MLS Cup in December of that year with Messi as a key player, prioritized family mourning over any sporting commitments.
The match against Monterrey will proceed without its captain, who traveled to say goodbye to his first mentor in soccer, a role that transcended representation.
FAQs About Lionel Messi's Family Loss
What was the cause of Jorge Messi's death?
The cause of Jorge Messi's death has not been disclosed due to privacy reasons, although it was reported that he had suffered from a prolonged illness.
How did Inter Miami support Lionel Messi during this difficult time?
Inter Miami released Messi from playing obligations so he could travel to Argentina. The club also shared a message of support on social media to show solidarity with Messi and his family.
How did the global football community react to Jorge Messi's passing?
The global football community reacted with deep sorrow. Various clubs and organizations, including CONMEBOL and the Argentine Football Association, expressed condolences. Many clubs issued official statements and observed moments of silence in memory of Jorge Messi.