Rabat – Lionel Messi has shared an emotional farewell to his late father, Jorge Messi, in a heartfelt message reflecting on grief, family, and the uncertainty of life after loss.
Jorge Messi, who played a central role in guiding his son’s career from childhood through global superstardom, died last week after a prolonged illness.
In a lengthy tribute published on Instagram, the Argentina captain admitted he is still struggling to process the loss.
“Dad, I still can’t believe you’re gone,” Messi wrote. “I’m not falling apart, or rather, I don’t want to fall apart.”
The Inter Miami forward said it was difficult to accept that he would never see or speak to his father again, despite knowing the illness had caused him significant suffering.
“You left far too soon. We still had so much to enjoy together,” he added.
Messi also revealed that one of his father’s greatest wishes was to see him compete at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, recalling how Jorge’s condition worsened shortly before the tournament began.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner admitted the loss has left him questioning his future in football.
“I don’t know what I’ll do without you, and I don’t know how I’ll keep moving forward,” Messi wrote. “I was only playing football, and now I have many doubts about whether I’ll continue doing so for much longer.”
He ended the tribute by reflecting on the lifelong support his father gave him, asking one painful question:
“Why couldn’t you hold on a little longer, so that we could finish the journey together?”
Among the thousands of messages left beneath the post was one from Cristiano Ronaldo, whose rivalry with Messi has defined an era of football.
The Portugal captain offered his condolences in a brief but heartfelt message.
“A big hug to you and your loved ones in this difficult moment, Leo. Stay strong.”
The exchange highlighted the mutual respect that has long existed between two players whose careers have often been defined by competition, but who have repeatedly shown support for one another away from the pitch.
