August 9, 2026
Lionel Messi has returned to his hometown of Rosario, Argentina, to bid farewell to his father, Jorge Messi, who died at the age of 68 after a prolonged illness.
Messi arrived in Rosario at around 8:40 p.m. local time on Saturday, accompanied by his wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, and their children, according to Agence France-Presse.
The football star left the airport in a van under police escort. Jorge Messi is expected to be buried in Pérez, a city near Rosario.
The cause and circumstances of Jorge Messi’s death have not been officially disclosed. He had reportedly been suffering from health problems for an extended period.
Private funeral planned
According to Argentine sports outlet TyC Sports, the funeral will be held privately, with only family members and close friends expected to attend.
Despite the private arrangements, a large number of Messi supporters have gathered outside the cemetery where Jorge Messi is expected to be buried, seeking to show their support for the football icon and his family during their time of grief.
Jorge Messi played a significant role throughout his son’s career. He served as Lionel Messi’s agent and was closely involved in his development from a young footballer in Rosario into one of the world’s most celebrated players.
Messi granted leave from Inter Miami
Messi’s return to Argentina comes as he was due to feature for Inter Miami in their Leagues Cup group-stage match against Monterrey on Sunday.
However, following his father’s death, Messi was excused from the match. Inter Miami are not expected to rush him back to the United States, allowing the Argentina captain time to remain with his family.
Jorge Messi’s death comes after decades of supporting his son’s football career and accompanying him through some of the most significant moments of his life.
Messi is expected to remain in Rosario through the funeral before eventually returning to his club commitments in the United States.
