Jorge Messi, Father of Lionel Messi, Passes Away at 68

Jorge Messi, the father of renowned football player Lionel Messi, has died at the age of 68 following a lengthy illness. He passed away in a hospital in Rosario, Argentina, with the family announcing the news the following day.

The Messi family had previously kept details about Jorge's health private, only revealing during the recent World Cup that he was undergoing medical treatment. Lionel Messi expressed his emotional state after scoring in Argentina's opening match, indicating that he had faced challenging days.

Jorge is survived by his wife, Celia, and their four children. Tributes have poured in, including a statement from Messi's boyhood club, Newell's Old Boys, which highlighted Jorge's significant role in supporting Lionel's career and his dedication as a father.