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Jorge Messi, the 68-year-old father and manager of Argentine soccer star Lionel Messi, was buried Sunday in a private family ceremony at El Prado cemetery on the outskirts of Rosario, Santa Fe Province, according to Argentine media.
Lionel Messi, his wife Antonela Roccuzzo, and other close relatives attended the funeral, which was held under tight security and strict privacy measures.
Outside the gates, journalists, police officers, and devoted fans gathered to pay their respects. Many supporters brought gifts to honor the man who played such a pivotal role in shaping his son's historic life and career.
The family did not disclose the cause of death. However, Argentina's newspaper Clarin reported that Jorge Messi had been receiving cancer treatment and had spent several months undergoing medical care at a hospital, including during the 2026 World Cup.
His health became a subject of public attention after Lionel Messi broke down in tears following a goal he scored against Algeria during the World Cup. The emotional moment was linked to concerns over his father's illness.
Despite the intense affection Argentines have for Messi, the crowd gathered around the cemetery remained relatively small.
Meanwhile, the house where Lionel Messi was born has effectively become a memorial, with fans leaving numerous gifts, letters, banners and flowers outside.
The modest, two-story home in Rosario, about 300 kilometers (186 miles) north of the capital Buenos Aires, was decorated with Argentine flags and messages of support for the soccer star.
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