Cristiano Ronaldo has expressed his sympathy to Lionel Messi after the death of Messi’s father, Jorge, who was 68.
Condolences after Jorge Messi’s death
Jorge Messi reportedly passed away in Rosario, Argentina, on August 7, 2026, following a lengthy illness. Ronaldo’s message came after Messi shared an emotional reflection on the loss of his father.
- Ronaldo told Messi: “Sending you and your loved ones a huge hug during this painful time, Leo. Remain strong.”
- Jorge was a central figure in his son’s personal life and football career.
A father’s role in Messi’s career
Jorge Messi worked as his son’s agent for many years and supported him throughout his rise from Rosario to global football stardom.
The loss has also prompted Messi to consider what comes next in his own career. The Inter Miami forward said he has “a few doubts” about carrying on playing, but he has not declared that he will retire.
Respect beyond a historic rivalry
Ronaldo and Messi spent over a decade as the defining figures in one of football’s most celebrated individual contests. The pair challenged each other for major trophies and personal honours while representing Real Madrid and Barcelona respectively.
Their competition shaped an era of the sport, yet Ronaldo’s supportive words following Jorge Messi’s death also underlined the mutual respect that has grown between the two icons away from their years of rivalry.
