Lionel Messi’s father, Jorge, recovering under medical supervision, family says

Lionel Messi’s father, Jorge, recovering under medical supervision, family says
Soccer Football - FIFA World Cup 2026 - Argentina Training - Sporting KC Training Centre, Kansas City, Kansas, U.S. - 18 June, 2026
Reuters

Jorge Messi, the father of football star Lionel Messi, is under medical supervision and is "progressing favourably" while recovering from an undisclosed health condition, according to a family statement.

Family criticises speculation

Speculation surrounding Jorge Messi's health prompted a strongly worded response from the family regarding reports that had circulated in recent hours.

"In light of the versions, rumors and speculation that have circulated in recent hours, the family wishes to express their profound discomfort at the lack of sensitivity, respect and scruples with which some individuals have treated a strictly private and family matter," the statement read.

"The family also wishes to clarify that only his closest relatives have real and accurate information regarding Jorge's condition. Therefore, any version, statement, or information that does not come directly from the family and its official channels should not be considered valid or truthful."

Jorge Messi, 68, is reported to play a key role in overseeing his son's business interests.

Messi emotional after World Cup opener

In the opening match of his record sixth World Cup, Lionel Messi was brought to tears after scoring three goals in Argentina's 3-0 victory over Algeria on Tuesday.

The hat-trick was the first of Messi's World Cup career and took his tally in the tournament to 16 goals, drawing level with Germany's Miroslav Klose as the competition's all-time leading scorer.

Soccer Football - FIFA World Cup 2026 - Argentina Training - Sporting KC Training Centre, Kansas City, Kansas, U.S. - 18 June, 2026
Reuters

After the match, Messi was asked about the emotional scenes following his performance.

"Why did I cry? It was something completely unrelated to football. I went through some difficult days," Messi said in Spanish.

Argentina's second Group J match is against Austria on Monday in Arlington, Texas.

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