Published : 10 Aug 2026, 04:47 PM
Updated : 08 Sep 2026, 09:31 AM
Jorge Messi, father of Argentine football star Lionel Messi, has been laid to rest in a private family ceremony near Rosario, Anadolu Ajansı reports.
The 68-year-old was buried at El Prado cemetery on the outskirts of Rosario in Santa Fe Province on Sunday, the Turkish news agency said.
Messi, his wife Antonela Roccuzzo, family members and close relatives attended the funeral, which was held under tight security and strict privacy measures.
Journalists, police officers and Messi fans gathered outside the cemetery.
Many supporters brought gifts to pay their respects to Jorge, who played a significant role in his son’s life and career as both his father and manager.
The family did not disclose the cause of death.
Argentine newspaper Clarin, however, reported that Jorge had been undergoing cancer treatment and had spent several months in hospital care, including during the 2026 World Cup.
His illness drew public attention after Messi broke down in tears following a goal against Algeria at the World Cup, an emotional moment widely linked to concerns over his father's condition.
Despite Messi’s immense popularity in Argentina, the crowd outside the cemetery remained relatively small.
The house where Messi was born, meanwhile, has effectively turned into a memorial site, with fans leaving gifts, letters, banners and flowers outside.
The modest two-storey house in Rosario, roughly 300km (186 miles) north of Buenos Aires, has been adorned with Argentine flags and messages of support for the footballer.
