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Jorge Messi receives medical treatment as family requests privacy
Messi equals Kloses World Cup record with hat-trick in Argentinas 3-0 win
Lionel Messi’s father, Jorge Messi, is receiving medical treatment for an undisclosed health issue, the Argentina forward’s family announced on Thursday, two days after he wiped away tears on the pitch following his team’s opening World Cup victory over Algeria.
In a statement released on 18 June 2026, the Messi family confirmed that 68-year-old Jorge is “under medical observation,” recovering and progressing favourably . The family did not specify the nature of the illness but urged the public and media to show “responsibility” and “humanity,” asking for privacy during a sensitive period. “At times like these, we ask for responsibility,” the statement read .
Messi’s emotional reaction during Argentina’s 3-0 win over Algeria on Tuesday—when he scored the opening goal and broke down in tears—prompted widespread speculation about his father’s health. The family’s statement directly addressed those concerns, linking Messi’s visible distress to his father’s condition . Spanish outlet *La Vanguardia* reported that Jorge Messi is under medical supervision and improving, though the family declined to provide further details .
International media outlets echoed the family’s call for restraint. German newspaper *Die Welt* highlighted the lack of empathy shown toward Messi, noting that the family had criticised the public’s insensitivity amid the uncertainty . Greek sports site *Protothema* framed the family’s announcement as a response to the emotional scenes in Qatar, where Argentina opened their World Cup campaign .
Jorge Messi, a fixture in Lionel’s career since his early days at Barcelona, was notably absent from the stands during Argentina’s first match—a detail that fuelled speculation before the family’s statement. The World Cup, now in its group stage, continues with Argentina next scheduled to face their second opponent on Sunday. The family’s request for privacy underscores the personal toll such high-profile scrutiny can take, even as the tournament unfolds thousands of miles away.
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