Lionel Messi is mourning the loss of his father, Jorge Messi, who has died at the age of 68 following a prolonged illness.
Jorge, who was a constant figure throughout his son’s remarkable football journey, played an important role in Messi’s development from his early days in Rosario to becoming one of the greatest players in football.
The Ballon d’Or, which Messi has won a record eight times, expressed its condolences to the Argentine superstar and his family following the news.
“The Ballon d’Or extends its heartfelt condolences to Lionel Messi and his family following the passing of his father, Jorge Messi. Rest in peace.”
Jorge Messi remained closely involved in his son’s career over the years, particularly during the early stages of Lionel’s rise from Argentina to Barcelona and eventually to global football stardom.
His death marks a deeply personal loss for the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, with tributes now being extended to Messi and his family from across the football community.
