Lionel Messi with his father Jorge Messi. Source: Instagram/@jorge.sole
As Argentina legend Lionel Messi makes history at the World Cup, his father is experiencing a “health situation” that prompted family members to release a statement on Thursday (June 18, 2026).Jorge Messi is “under medical supervision” as he continues to recover from a medical condition that was not revealed. The family statement said he is “progressing favorably.”Speculation about the star player’s 68-year-old father, Jorge, prompted a terse tone in the family statement.“In light of the versions, rumors and speculation that have circulated in recent hours, the family wishes to express their profound discomfort at the lack of sensitivity, respect and scruples with which some individuals have treated a strictly private and family matter,” the statement read.“The family also wishes to clarify that only his closest relatives have real and accurate information regarding Jorge’s condition. Therefore, any version, statement, or information that does not come directly from the family and its official channels should not be considered valid or truthful.”
Argentina's Lionel Messi gestures to fans after the World Cup Group J match between Argentina and Algeria
