A health problem for Jorge Messi, father of Lionel Messi, has generated concern in Argentina in the middle of the 2026 World Cup, without the severity of his medical condition being known at the moment.

"The Messi family reports that Jorge is going through a health situation. He is currently under medical follow-up, recovering and evolving favorably within the condition he presents," the Argentine captain's family reported in a statement this Thursday.

The text also expressed the family's "deep discomfort" at the spread of rumors about the death of Jorge Messi that circulated in the media and social networks in Argentina and accused a "lack of sensitivity, respect and scruples with which some people have treated a strictly private and family situation."

“Any version, statement or information that does not come from the family itself and its corresponding channels should not be considered valid or truthful,” added the text, which called for “responsibility, prudence and humanity” and stressed that “the health of a person and the tranquility of their environment should not be the subject of speculation or irresponsible media interest.”

After Argentina's 3-0 victory over Algeria in the World Cup debut last Tuesday, Messi was asked about his tears celebrating the first of his three goals and revealed that he was facing "an issue totally unrelated to sports."

“I spent some difficult, complicated days, but grateful to the entire delegation and all my teammates because they were always by my side, a lot of strength to make me well,” added the Inter Miami footballer, who with his hat trick equaled German Miroslav Klose as the all-time top scorer in World Cups with 16 goals.

Since then, Messi has not made any statements on the subject again. Jorge Messi is 68 years old and, together with Celia Cuccittini, they are parents of Lionel, Rodrigo, Matías and María Sol.