Messi family pleads for 'humanity' as father Jorge recovers from undisclosed illness

Family statement addresses health situation

Three days after Argentina's 3-0 opening win over Algeria, the Messi family released a statement through the player's media office confirming that Jorge Messi, 68, is dealing with a "health situation". The statement said he is "under medical supervision, recovering and progressing favourably within the condition he is experiencing". No further details about the nature of the illness were provided. A source close to the family told Reuters that the elder Messi is in a delicate state in a hospital in Argentina.

“At times like these, we ask for responsibility, prudence and humanity. A person's health and the peace of mind of their loved ones should not be the subject of speculation or irresponsible media interest.”

Rumours prompt family outrage

The family's statement came on the same day that false reports of Jorge Messi's death circulated in Argentina, according to multiple outlets. German magazine Focus reported that rumours spread especially through WhatsApp groups in Messi's hometown of Rosario and in Buenos Aires. The family expressed "deep discomfort with the lack of sensitivity, respect and scruples" with which some people treated what they called a strictly private family matter.

They also clarified that only the closest relatives have "real and accurate information" about Jorge's condition, and that no version not coming directly from the family should be considered valid.

Messi's emotional World Cup opener

Lionel Messi, 38, scored a hat-trick against Algeria, drawing level with Miroslav Klose as the all-time World Cup top scorer with 16 goals. After his first goal, he wiped away tears with his shirt, an image that fuelled intense speculation about his father's health.

“I've had some tough days. It wasn't related to football. And those feelings were because of that. I thank my teammates, the coaching staff and the delegation for helping me.”

He said he was grateful to the entire squad for standing by him and giving him strength.

Jorge Messi's role in his son's career

Jorge Messi played a central part in his son's football journey. He accompanied a young Lionel to Barcelona in the early 2000s for a tryout at La Masia academy, later negotiated his contracts with the Catalan club and managed transfers to Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Miami. He also handled image rights and various business investments. In 2016, father and son were convicted of tax evasion in Spain but avoided prison time because the sentence was under two years.

What comes next

Argentina, the defending champions, face Austria in Dallas on Monday 22 June in their second Group J match. The family said any relevant updates on Jorge's health will be communicated through their official channels.