Barcelona and Real Madrid have put their fierce rivalry aside to offer their condolences to Lionel Messi and his family following the death of his father, Jorge Messi. Jorge passed away in Argentina at the age of 68 after a prolonged illness, prompting an outpouring of support for the Messi family from across the footballing world.
Tributes and messages of sympathy have been directed towards Lionel and his loved ones as the Argentina captain deals with the loss of his father. Real Madrid, despite its historic rivalry with Barcelona and Messi’s long association with the Catalan club, also joined the football community in expressing its support. The Spanish giants shared a message on social media conveying their condolences to Lionel Messi and his family during this difficult period.
“Real Madrid CF, its president and its Board of Directors deeply regret the passing of Jorge Messi, father of Leo Messi. Our club wishes to express its condolences to Leo, his family, and all his loved ones. May he rest in peace,” read the statement from Real Madrid on their website.
Barcelona paid an emotional tribute to Jorge and Messi’s family on X. Barca thanked Jorge for entrusting the club with Messi’s career right at the start and helping him prosper under their wings.
“The President and the Board of Directors of FC Barcelona express their deepest condolences on the passing of Jorge Messi, father of Bara player and legend Lionel Messi, and on behalf of the entire Barcelona community, extend their sympathies to the Messi family.”
“FC Barcelona thanks Jorge Messi for his commitment to our Club, for entrusting us with the beginning and the most glorious years of his son Leo’s football career. Rest in peace,” read the statement from Barcelona.
JORGE’S INFLUENCE ON MESSI’S CAREER
Jorge Messi was one of the most influential figures behind Lionel Messi’s extraordinary football journey. His involvement extended well beyond that of a parent, as he played an active part in managing his son’s career and helping navigate some of its biggest decisions.
Jorge was closely involved when Messi’s future was being discussed in the early years of his career, including the move that took the young Argentine from Rosario to Barcelona. He continued to have a role in major career moves later in Messi’s career, including his transfers to Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Miami.
Despite remaining an important presence in Lionel’s professional life, Jorge and the wider Messi family were not seen in the stands during the 2026 World Cup, where Argentina ultimately finished runners-up to Spain.
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