Real Madrid shows why it is the greatest
Jorge Messi, father and longtime agent of the Argentine star, has passed away at the age of 68 after a long illness, with condolences also coming from Barcelona's biggest rival.
Jorge Messi, father and longtime agent of the Argentine star, has passed away at the age of 68 after a long illness, with condolences also coming from Barcelona's biggest rival.
The world of football is in mourning. Jorge Messi, father and longtime agent of Lionel Messi, passed away on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at the age of 68. He died in a hospital in the Argentine city of Rosario after a long battle with a serious illness.
Jorge was much more than the father of one of the greatest footballers of all time. From his teenage years until the very end, he was his agent and closest confidant, playing a key role in shaping a career that wrote history. Messi often highlighted his support and influence, especially during the golden years at Barcelona and with the Argentine national team.
The news of the loss quickly spread, and among the first to react were the institutions that marked Messi's journey. Newell's Old Boys, the club from Rosario where a young Leo took his first football steps, paid tribute to Jorge and acknowledged his immeasurable contribution. FC Barcelona and the Argentine Football Association also expressed their sorrow and condolences to the family.
However, special attention was drawn to a message that came from Madrid. Real Madrid, for decades Barcelona's greatest rival, the club of which Messi is one of the greatest symbols, sent an emotional and dignified message of support. On their official website, they published:
"Real Madrid CF, its president and Board of Directors deeply regret the death of Jorge Messi, father of Leo Messi. Our club wishes to express its condolences to Leo, his family, and all his loved ones. Rest in peace."
This move by the Madrid giants was met with widespread praise and once again confirmed that in moments of personal tragedy, sporting rivalry fades before human greatness and compassion. The gesture showed why Real Madrid carries the epithet of the greatest club in the world, not only because of trophies but also because of class.
