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International Business Times UK

Ria Pathak

Messi Fans Rage at TV Presenter for Announcing His Father's Death Without Verification — 'Disrespect During World Cup'

Jorge Messi Lionel Messi World Cup

Jorge Messi, father and long-time agent of Lionel Messi, became the subject of viral online speculation after false reports claimed he had died during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. (Credit: AFP News)

A false on-air announcement about Lionel Messi's father has turned into one of the biggest media controversies of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with fans accusing an Argentine presenter of showing 'disrespect' to the football icon and his family during a sensitive time.

Florencia Peña, a well-known actress and TV host, sparked outrage on 18 June after claiming live on streaming show El Show del Verano that Jorge Messi had died.

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