Lionel Messi’s Father Jorge Messi Dead at 68 After Health Battle

Lionel Messi is mourning a devastating loss.

The Argentinean soccer star’s father Jorge Messi has died following a private health battle, according to multiple Argentine and Spanish outlets. He was 68.

Before Jorge’s death, the Messi family shared insight into what he was going through during his final days, while also slamming false narratives surrounding the patriarch.

“The Messi family informs that Jorge is going through a health-related situation,” the Messi family said in a June 18 statement. “At this time, he is under medical care, recovering and evolving favorably given the condition he is experiencing.”

“In light of the rumors, speculation, and reports that have circulated in recent hours” the statement added, “the family would like to express its deep disappointment over the lack of sensitivity, respect, and decency with which some individuals have treated what is strictly a private family matter.”

The statement came days after Lionel, 39, addressed his tearful response to his hat trick in Argentina’s opening World Cup match against Algeria June 16, saying it had nothing to do with the fact the goals launched him into a new echelon of FIFA record-makers.