Messi family confirms Jorge's health scare after tearful World Cup moment

The Messi family has released an official statement confirming that Jorge Messi is dealing with a health issue, after Lionel was visibly emotional during Argentina’s 3-0 victory over Algeria at the World Cup.

The statement confirmed that Jorge is currently under medical supervision and said he is “recovering and evolving favorably within the condition he is presenting.” The family did not disclose the specific nature of the illness.

Messi, 38, was spotted in tears after the first of Argentina’s three goals against Algeria. He later confirmed the emotion was caused by something “completely unrelated to football,” which prompted widespread speculation about his father’s wellbeing.

In their statement, the family moved to address the wave of rumour and conjecture that followed, expressing frustration at how the situation had been handled publicly. “The family wishes to express its deep distress over the lack of sensitivity, respect, and scruples with which some people have treated a strictly private and family situation,” the statement read.

The family also cautioned against trusting unverified sources, stressing that only those closest to Jorge hold accurate information about his condition. “Any version, statement, or information that does not come from the family itself and its corresponding channels should not be considered valid or truthful,” it added.

The statement closed with a request for privacy and responsible reporting, thanking supporters for their messages of concern while asking that Jorge and his family be given space during his recovery. The family confirmed it would provide further updates through its own channels as and when appropriate.