Lionel Messi Attends Father's Funeral During League Cup Tournament

By Karen Curtis
FBL-ARGENTINA-DEATH

Argentine football star Lionel Messi (L) and his wife Antonela Roccuzzo arrive at the Islas Malvinas International Airport after the death of his father Jorge Messi in Rosario, Santa Fe province, Argentina on August 8, 2026. Jorge Messi, the father and agent of Lionel Messi, has died aged 68, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner's childhood club Newell's Old Boys announced on August 8, 2026. (Photo by Luis ROBAYO / AFP via Getty Images)Photo: LUIS ROBAYO / AFP / Getty Images

(Miami, FL) - InterMiami star and captain Lionel Messi had to step away from League's cup group play after heartbreaking news his father passed away.

Messi was granted compassionate leave to fly to Argentina to attend the funeral and burial of Jorge Messi who died at 68 from a prolonged illness.

The team held a moment of silence prior to Saturday’s kickoff which Inter lost 2-1 to CF Monterrey.

Now Miami are on the verge of being eliminated from the 2026 Leagues Cup with star captain Lionel Messi absent and only one match remaining on the schedule.

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