President Javier Milei addressed the death of Jorge Messi, father of football star Lionel Messi, in a social media post that criticized those who had previously criticized the player. The message was published on Saturday after the passing of Jorge Messi, who died at the age of 68 at the Sanatorio Centro de Rosario. According to hospital officials, no further details regarding the cause of death would be disclosed, citing privacy concerns and respect for the family. In a series of posts shared through his Instagram account, Milei recalled the difficult time Messi faced during the World Cup 2026 while his father was seriously ill. He expressed deep disappointment over the existence of critics towards Messi within Argentina, stating, “It is shameful to think there were anti-Messi people in Argentina.” Milei praised Messi’s efforts to bring joy to the Argentine people during this challenging period and described him as “the greatest human being in the history of the country.” Messi himself had publicly expressed his grief following his father's death. In a heartfelt letter posted on his Instagram account, he conveyed his emotional struggle, stating, “I don’t know what I will do without you, I don’t know how to go on. I used to just play football, and now I have serious doubts about whether I will continue doing so for much longer.” This sentiment was echoed by his wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, who reposted the letter on her own Instagram stories with heart emojis, showing her support for Messi during this difficult time. The president’s response came shortly after Messi’s public acknowledgment of his father’s death. Milei’s message of solidarity included gratitude for the happiness and pride Messi brought to the nation, saying, “Thank you for the joy and pride you gave us all Argentinians, both you and your father. Today we embrace and support you in whatever path you choose to follow.” His comments followed a previous post expressing support for Messi, which stated, “Strength, captain, we are with you.” Milei had previously criticized individuals who participated in what he referred to as an “anti-Argentine campaign” against Messi after the World Cup final. He reposted a message from user Diego Álzaga Unzué, who often critiques leftist politics, highlighting the perceived negativity directed at Messi during one of the most difficult periods of his life. Milei emphasized that those who criticized Messi would now have to live with the consequences of their actions, suggesting they would face ongoing scrutiny. The passing of Jorge Messi has prompted widespread expressions of condolence from figures across sports, entertainment, and politics. Messages of support poured in for Messi, his mother Celia Cuccittini, and his siblings Rodrigo, Matías, and María Sol. These messages reflected the deep impact of the loss on the broader community and underscored the significance of Messi’s role in Argentine culture. Messi’s emotional letter detailed the close relationship he shared with his father, describing how his father supported him throughout his career. He acknowledged the pain of losing someone who had been a constant presence in his life, noting that his father had always encouraged him to pursue his dreams. Despite the sorrow, Messi expressed hope that his father would watch over him and guide his children in the future. As the situation unfolds, attention remains focused on Messi’s potential future in football. His recent statements suggest uncertainty about continuing his professional career, though no definitive decisions have been made. Meanwhile, Milei’s public stance continues to highlight the importance of unity and support for national icons during times of personal tragedy.
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