Lionel Messi bids farewell to his father, Jorge Messi

Jorge Messi, the father of Argentine football star Lionel Messi, who passed away at the age of 68, has been laid to rest in Argentina.

A private funeral ceremony for Jorge Messi was held at the El Prado Cemetery in the town of Perez, near the city of Rosario. The ceremony was attended by Lionel Messi, his wife Antonela Roccuzzo, family members, and close relatives.

It was reported that the funeral was conducted under tight security measures and away from the public eye. Journalists, police teams, and Messi fans were also present around the cemetery.

Many fans gathered around the cemetery to bid farewell to Jorge Messi, who held an important place in Lionel Messi's life and career as both his father and manager; it was noted that some fans brought gifts with them.

The family has not made an official statement regarding the cause of Jorge Messi's death. However, the Argentine press outlet Clarin reported that Jorge Messi had been receiving treatment for cancer for some time and had been hospitalized in recent months.

Jorge Messi's health condition had also come to the fore during the 2026 World Cup. It was reported that the emotional moments Lionel Messi experienced after scoring a goal against Algeria were linked to his father's illness.

Meanwhile, numerous letters, banners, flowers, and messages of support were left by fans in front of the modest house in Rosario where Messi was born. The area around the house, decorated with Argentine flags, has turned into a symbolic meeting point to show support for the star footballer.