Jorge Messi is recovering under medical care

Lionel Messi’s family has criticised what it called irresponsible speculation about the health of his father, Jorge Messi, after rumours spread in the wake of Argentina’s World Cup victory over Algeria.

According to Olé, the family issued a statement confirming that Jorge Messi is dealing with a health issue, but is recovering under medical supervision.

“The Messi family announces that Jorge is going through a health situation,” the statement said. “At this time, he is under medical supervision, recovering and progressing favourably within the condition he is facing.”

The statement was released after Messi became emotional during Argentina’s 3-0 win over Algeria, a match in which he scored a hat-trick and equalled Miroslav Klose’s all-time World Cup scoring record.

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Family asks for privacy and restraint

The family made clear that it was unhappy with the way some reports and online speculation had handled the matter.

“In light of the versions, rumours and speculation that have circulated in recent hours, the family wishes to express its deep discomfort at the lack of sensitivity, respect and scruples with which some people have treated a strictly private and family matter,” the statement said.

It added that “only his closest family has real and precise information about Jorge’s condition” and said any information not coming from the family or its official channels “should not be considered valid or truthful.”

The family also appealed for restraint.

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“At moments like this, we ask for responsibility, prudence and humanity,” the statement said. “A person’s health and the peace of those around them should not be the subject of speculation or irresponsible media interest.”

Messi explains emotional celebration

Messi had appeared visibly moved after scoring against Algeria, which led to widespread speculation about the reason for his reaction.

As TV 2 reported, Messi later said his emotions were not related to football.

“Why did I cry? It was something completely unrelated to football. I went through some difficult days,” Messi said after the match.

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“But I am 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.”

False death report sparks backlash

The rumours escalated after Argentine presenter Florencia Peña falsely reported on Luzu TV that Jorge Messi had died. She later apologised and stepped away from the channel.

Luzu TV also said it would part ways with those responsible for allowing the false information to be broadcast, describing the handling of sensitive information without proper verification as unacceptable.

The incident drew a strong reaction from the Messi family’s inner circle. Antonela Roccuzzo, Lionel Messi’s wife, reportedly unfollowed Peña, the streaming channel and the company’s owner on Instagram.

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For now, the family’s message is clear: Jorge Messi remains under medical care, is recovering, and any further updates should come only through official family channels.

Argentina are due to face Austria in Dallas on Monday, June 22.

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