Lionel Messi and his family traveled to Rosario, Argentina, to attend a private funeral for his father, Jorge Messi, who died at the age of 68 following complications from a long-term illness, according to local reports. The Inter Miami forward arrived on a private flight from the United States alongside his wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, and their children to join his mother, Celia Cuccittini, and siblings Matias, Rodrigo, and Maria Sol for the service at the El Prado Cemetery in Santa Fe Province.
Private Funeral Held at El Prado Cemetery in Rosario
According to municipal authorities, the El Prado Cemetery was closed to visitors from Sunday afternoon to ensure complete privacy for the Messi family during the services. Security was heavily reinforced around the perimeter in Santa Fe Province. Rosario Mayor Pablo Javkin publicly extended his condolences to the family and confirmed that local government agencies coordinated security measures to maintain privacy throughout the difficult mourning period.
Public Tributes and Tributes Across Argentine Football
Supporters gathered outside the Rosario airport and near the cemetery gates, displaying banners and messages of support for the Argentina captain. According to observed scenes outside the venue, one fan attached a banner to the cemetery fence reading, “Stay strong, Leo, we love you.” In the wider football community, the Argentine Football Association directed all professional and junior weekend matches to hold a moment of silence, while players, coaching staff, and referees wore black armbands. Abanderado Grandoli, the local Rosario club where Messi began his career in football, shared a vintage team photograph featuring Jorge Messi and young players alongside a tribute message on social media.
Did you know? Jorge Messi supported his son’s early career from the local fields of Rosario all the way to winning the World Cup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where was the funeral for Jorge Messi held?
The private funeral took place at the El Prado Cemetery in the outskirts of Rosario, Santa Fe Province, according to local reports.
What tributes were paid by Argentine football authorities?
Following instructions from the Argentine Football Association, weekend matches across professional and junior categories observed a moment of silence, with participants wearing black armbands.
Which local club paid tribute to Jorge Messi?
Abanderado Grandoli, the club in Rosario where Lionel Messi started playing football, published a historical team photo and a tribute message on social media.
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