Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi has bid an emotional farewell to his father, Jorge Messi, during a strictly private funeral held in his hometown of Rosario, Argentina, on Sunday August 9.
According to Spanish outlet Marca, Lionel Messi returned from the United States with his wife Antonela Roccuzzo and their three children, to attend the private ceremony, which was held under heavy security at the El Prado cemetery on the outskirts of Rosario.
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The funeral was attended only by close family members and a handful of trusted friends, with authorities blocking public access to ensure the family’s privacy.
The report mentioned that a crowd gathered outside the cemetery gates to pay their respects, leaving flowers and handwritten messages around the gate. The mayor of Rosario, Pablo Javkin, also offered his condolences to the Messi family and clarified that the local Government made itself available to protect the funeral.
Jorge Messi died at the age of 68 following a serious battle with illness. The Argentine was receiving medical attention while his son was representing the national team at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Unfortunately, he couldn’t beat the ailment and died as a result.
This is indeed a huge loss to Lionel Messi. Jorge was not only his father but also his long-time representative and one of the key figures behind his rise from Rosario to global superstardom.
Throughout the player’s career, Jorge remained one of his closest advisers and a solid pillar of support. He famously left Argentina with his son when Barcelona offered to fund Lionel’s treatment for a growth hormone deficiency as a teenager. He later became the player’s agent, helping to negotiate his moves from Barca to Paris Saint-Germain and eventually Inter Miami.
What is next for Lionel Messi?
It wouldn’t be far-fetched to say Lionel Messi is currently in the most challenging phase of his life. Shortly after losing the World Cup final to Spain in July, the 39-year-old has suffered another painful heartbreak with the loss of his father.
As it stands, it doesn’t look like we’ll be seeing the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner back on the pitch anytime soon. He is currently spending time with his family while they mourn the demise of Jorge. This will likely continue for a couple of weeks until the family recovers from the setback.
Nevertheless, Messi is expected to make a return to the pitch at some point to help Inter Miami in their battle for silverware this season. The 39-year-old has played 18 games for the Herons since the campaign kicked off, recording 15 goals and eight assists to his name.
Edited by Nived Zenith