Lionel Messi attended the private funeral of his father, Jorge Messi, in Rosario on Sunday after Jorge died aged 68 following a long illness. Jorge Messi died at a clinic in Rosario on Saturday. The Inter Miami star travelled from the United States on a private plane with his wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, and their children after receiving news of his father’s death.

The funeral was held at the El Prado private cemetery in the outskirts of Santa Fe. Messi was joined by his mother, Celia Cuccittini, his brothers Matias and Rodrigo, and his sister Maria Sol. Visitor access to the cemetery was restricted to respect the family’s privacy, while public entry was closed from the afternoon and the event was held under tight security.

Residents of Rosario left banners near the airport and cemetery expressing support and condolences. The Argentine Football Association, national team coaching staff and Rosario Mayor Pablo Javkin also conveyed sympathy. Argentina ordered a minute of silence before all professional and youth football matches, with players, coaching staff and referees instructed to wear black armbands in Jorge Messi’s memory.