Jorge Messi, a constant presence in the stands at his son Lionel Messi’s matches, has died at age 68 after an illness, according to a statement from the clinic that treated him.

The Argentine businessman worked as a steel executive and managed his son’s career for decades. His illness became a topic of discussion during the 2026 World Cup, when his family acknowledged a health situation as Lionel Messi competed.

Argentina lost to Spain in the July 19 final. Lionel Messi, 39, had attributed his emotional displays early in the tournament to a family situation.

The medical facility, Sanatorio Centro, announced Jorge Messi’s death through its director but declined to disclose the nature of his illness.

He died around 2 a.m. on Saturday, according to the statement.

“We stand with his family and loved ones during this difficult time and offer our deepest condolences,” Dr. Carlos Mackey, an administrator, said in statement translated from Spanish.

“In compliance with current regulations regarding patient data protection, and out of respect for the family’s privacy, no further details regarding the medical circumstances of his passing will be provided,” the statement continued.

Jorge Messi had long been involved with UNICEF, the international humanitarian aid group, according to the organization.

“We regret the passing of Jorge Messi, father of our Goodwill Ambassador Lionel Messi and a person always committed to the rights of boys and girls and a benefactor of @unicef,” UNICEF wrote Saturday morning in a post on X.

Questions about Jorge Messi’s health loomed over the 2026 World Cup as fans wondered about the severity of his illness and what impact it had on his son.

A previous death announcement was the subject of a controversy in June that led to the resignation of a Argentine TV host. The former host, Florencia Peña, stepped down after incorrectly reporting that Jorge Messi had died in the run-up to the World Cup.

Peña said at the time that she relied on bad information fed to her through an earpiece. In a statement, she said she was partly responsible.

Messi’s family at the time said Jorge “is currently dealing with a health issue” and was “under medical supervision, recovering, and showing favorable progress given his condition,” a statement read.

Lionel Messi’s club, Inter Miami CF, has a match scheduled against a club from Monterrey, Mexico, on Saturday night in Miami.

“Our hearts are with our captain, Leo, and the entire Messi family,” the team posted on X, using Lionel’s nickname.