Messi’s Father’s Death Sparks Career-Ending Doubts

Jorge Messi, 68, died on August 7 after a prolonged illness. Six days later, Lionel Messi posted an Instagram message in Spanish with a photo of his father holding the 2022 World Cup Golden Ball. The post attracted worldwide attention and prompted speculation about Messi’s future.

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Jorge Messi had been Lionel’s companion since his early days at Newell’s Old Boys and later Barcelona, acting as father, friend and agent. He arranged Messi’s move to Spain at 13 and negotiated contracts with Barcelona, PSG and Inter Miami. During the 2026 World Cup, Jorge’s health deteriorated, preventing him from traveling to the United States.

New York PostLife Lesson: Quote of the day by Lionel Messi, 'I don't know what I'm going to do without you; I don't know how to go on. All I ever did was play soccer, and now I have serious doubts about whether I' ‘Tried to push past’: GOAT’s heartbreaking WC reveal, retirement hint in emotional tribute Lionel Messi Doubts ‘He Will Continue’ His Career After Father’s Death Lionel Messi: Legendary Argentina forward hints at retirement following death of his father Jorge The IndependentAl Jazeera (website)

• August 7 – Jorge Messi passes away in Rosario, Argentina.

The Independent

• August 9 – Fans leave “Stay strong” signs at El Prado cemetery.

New York Post

• August 12 – Messi shares the Instagram tribute and expresses career doubts.

Lionel Messi Doubts ‘He Will Continue’ His Career After Father’s Death

• July 19 2026 – Argentina’s World Cup final against Spain (runner-up).

Messi shares tribute to late father, expresses doubts about continuing to play soccer

• Messi has earned 207 caps for Argentina.

Lionel Messi: Legendary Argentina forward hints at retirement following death of his father Jorge

• At the 2026 World Cup he scored eight goals, provided three assists, and was the tournament’s second-top scorer.

Lionel Messi: Legendary Argentina forward hints at retirement following death of his father Jorge

• Career honors include 10 La Liga titles, four Champions League trophies, and eight Ballon d’Or awards.

The Guardian

• Messi’s contract with Inter Miami runs through 2028.

New York Post

Cristiano Ronaldo replied to Messi’s message: “A huge hug for you and yours in these hard moments, Leo. A lot of strength to you.”

Lionel Messi’s Emotional Tribute to Late Father Jorge Messi: Argentina Legend Reveals FIFA World Cup Struggles, Cristiano Ronaldo Reacts

Inter Miami defender Facundo Mura said the squad felt the loss deeply, and Newell’s Old Boys posted a tribute noting Jorge’s “pillar” role.

ESPN

Local observers photographed mourners at the family cemetery on August 9, where handwritten signs read “Stay strong” and “Rest in peace, Dad.”

People Magazine

The precise cause of Jorge Messi’s death has not been disclosed. Argentine and Spanish outlets reported he was suffering from cancer, but no official medical statement has confirmed this.

New York Post

• “All I ever did was play football, and now I have quite few doubts as to whether I’ll carry on doing it for much longer,” — Lionel Messi

New York Post

• “You were a father, a friend, and an agent.” — Lionel Messi

The Hindu

Inter Miami has not announced a date for Messi’s return. Messi remains on the club’s roster through 2028, but his future participation in club or international football is uncertain.

The Independent