Lionel Messi Asks for Prudence' and 'Compassion' amid His Dad's 'Health Situation' in a Family Statement
Lionel Messi Asks for Prudence' and 'Compassion' amid His Dad's 'Health Situation' in a Family Statement
Charna FlamFri, June 19, 2026 at 12:38 AM UTC
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Jorge and Lionel MessiCredit: Jean Catuffe/Getty; Jorge Messi/Instagram -
Lionel Messi's father, Jorge Messi, 68, is undergoing treatment for an undisclosed health condition
Following speculation around Jorge's health, the Messi family has requested privacy as he navigates the condition
The statement comes two days after Lionel grew emotional during Argentina's recent World Cup match, citing personal difficulties unrelated to football
Lionel Messi's father, Jorge Messi, is undergoing treatment for a "health situation."
The Messi family issued a statement on Thursday, June 18, sharing that Jorge, 68, was diagnosed with an illness, but has not shared his diagnosis. "He is currently under medical observation, recovering and progressing favorably within his current condition," ESPN reported.
The statement followed speculation surrounding Jorge's health, with the Messi family expressing its "deep displeasure" at the "lack of sensitivity, respect, and scruples with which some people have treated a strictly private and family matter."
"The family also wishes to clarify that only his closest family members have accurate and reliable information about Jorge's condition," the statement continued. "Therefore, any version, statement, or information that does not come from the family itself and its official channels should not be considered valid or true. At times like these, we ask for responsibility, prudence, and compassion."
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Jorge Messi on December 18, 2022 in Lusail City, Qatar.Credit: Jean Catuffe/Getty
The family criticized the "speculation" and "irresponsible media interest" amid Jorge's health concerns.
"We sincerely appreciate the expressions of affection, respect, and concern received, and we request that the privacy, confidentiality, and intimacy of Jorge and his entire family be respected during this process," the statement read.
The statement follows Argentina's 3-0 victory over Algeria during its opening 2026 World Cup match on Tuesday, June 16. After Lionel scored the first goal, he grew teary-eyed, and later clarified he was emotional for personal reasons. Messi, who is playing in his record-setting sixth World Cup, didn't share further details about what prompted his emotions.
"Why did I cry? It was something completely unrelated to football. I went through some difficult days," Lionel, who turns 39 next week, said. "But I'm grateful to the entire delegation and my teammates because they were always by my side, giving me a lot of strength to help me get through it."
on People
Source: “AOL Entertainment”
