Excitement over hoaxes
Messi’s father declared dead – broadcaster fires employees
June 19, 2026 – 7:39 a.mReading time: 2 minutes
An Argentine streaming service is spreading the false news live that Jorge Messi has died. The family reacts with a public statement – revealing what is really behind the speculation.
The Argentine streaming service Luzu TV incorrectly reported the death of Jorge Messi – the father of the soccer star – in a live broadcast Lionel Messi. Presenter Florencia Peña then publicly apologized to the family. Employees involved were fired and Peña ended the collaboration on his own initiative.
The 51-year-old explained on Instagram that the false information was sent to her by production in the middle of the live broadcast. Peña wrote: “I ask forgiveness from the Messi family for this terrible moment that I imagine they are currently living through.” According to Argentine media, she told a reporter: “I’m very ashamed.” She was asked to say it. “I was in shock.”
The head of the streaming service also spoke up. He emphasized that “I am just as outraged by what just happened on Luzu’s broadcast as you all are; that is neither me nor what we want to convey with our work. I completely reject it.”
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The Messi family then released a statement. “The Messi family informs that Jorge has health problems. He is currently under medical observation, recovering and showing a positive progression given his health condition,” the family wrote. At the same time, she spoke out against the public handling of the situation: “In light of the reports, rumors and speculation that have circulated in the last few hours, the family would like to express its deep discomfort at the lack of empathy, respect and scruples with which some people have handled a strictly private and family matter.”
Lionel Messi had previously spoken of difficult times after his hat-trick in World Cup defending champions Argentina’s game against Algeria. But these have nothing to do with football.