Lionel Messi's family criticise reporting after revealing health issues for father of Argentina star

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Suraj Radia | Editor

The family have Lionel Messi have released a statement expressing their ‘deep discomfort’ with ‘irresponsible media interest’ after revealing that the Argentina star’s father is currently dealing with health issues.

Messi was visibly emotional after scoring the first goal in his hat-trick against Algeria this week at the 2026 World Cup, with the 38-year-old admitting afterwards that he had endured ‘difficult days’.

On Thursday, in a statement sent to media outlets, the Messi family announced that Jorge, the 68-year-old father of Lionel, is recovering from an unspecified condition, along with a plea for ‘responsibility, prudence and humanity’ from onlookers.

"The Messi family wishes to inform that Jorge is currently dealing with a health issue," the statement said. "He is under medical supervision and is recovering, showing favorable progress given his condition.

"In light of the various accounts, rumors, and speculations circulating recently, the family wishes to express its deep distress regarding the lack of sensitivity, respect, and scruples shown by some individuals in addressing a strictly private family matter.”

It also stated: "At a time like this, we call 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 attention.

"We sincerely appreciate the expressions of affection, respect, and concern we have received, and we ask that the privacy and confidentiality of Jorge and his entire family be respected throughout this process.”

Messi family respond strongly after insensitive reports from Argentina

Messi was seen shedding tears during Argentina’s opening match at the 2026 World Cup and speculation soon emerged over the reasoning behind his reaction, with the Inter Miami star only willing to express that the issue was ‘completely unrelated to football’.

Reports in Argentina went on to release private information about Jorge Messi’s condition but no official diagnosis has been revealed and the family have insisted that only information shared by them should be trusted.

"The family wishes to clarify that only his immediate family possesses accurate and reliable information regarding Jorge's condition,” the letter said.

“Consequently, any account, statement, or information not originating from the family itself or its official channels should not be considered valid or truthful.

"Any significant updates will be communicated in due course by the family through the appropriate channels. Thank you for your understanding."

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