Lionel Messi has stepped away from football following the death of his father, Jorge Messi, at the age of 68. The loss has deeply affected the Argentine star, who has suspended his professional commitments with Inter Miami to remain close to his family.
Jorge played a crucial role throughout his son’s career as his first advisor and representative, supporting him from Newell’s Old Boys to his move to Spain and his rise to global stardom.
Jorge Messi’s health had already caused concern within the family, including during the 2026 World Cup in the United States. Lionel continued to fulfill his responsibilities with Argentina while dealing with his father’s condition. Following Jorge’s death, however, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner returned to Argentina to support his loved ones. Several figures from Argentine football, including Leandro Paredes, Nicolás Otamendi and Ángel Di María, are also expected to offer their support.
Messi has not set a date for his return to Inter Miami, leaving his future uncertain. According to reports from the Argentine press, the 39-year-old wants to take as much time as necessary to grieve before deciding when to resume his professional commitments. He has not announced his retirement, but football currently sits far below his family in his priorities. For now, Messi wants to focus on his loved ones and mourn the loss of the man who stood beside him from the beginning of his extraordinary journey.
