TV presenter issues apology for falsely claiming Lionel Messi's father died during World Cup
Lionel Messi’s emotional reaction during Argentina’s World Cup opener prompted concern among supporters this week, after the footballer was seen in tears during his side’s 3-0 win over Algeria.
The 38-year-old, who scored a hat-trick as Argentina began their campaign, later made clear that his reaction had not been linked to the sports match itself.
The moment sparked speculation online about his father Jorge Messi, 68, who has long played an important role in the footballer’s life and career.
Following the rumours, Argentine TV presenter Florencia Pena has issued a public apology after falsely claiming live on air that Jorge had died while Messi was competing at the tournament.
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Pena made the claim while appearing on Luzu TV’s El Show del Verano.
Speaking during the broadcast, reported by outlets like The Sun, she said: “I don’t want to break bad news, but Messi’s father just died.”
She then added: “Right in the middle of the World Cup, he’s going to have to leave.”
The claim quickly spread across news and social media, before it was confirmed that Jorge had not actually died.
According to GB News, Pena later attempted to clarify the situation on air, saying: “There are a lot of rumours, it's all over Twitter, it's not confirmed by any media outlet, we're clarifying this just in case.”
The Messi family later released a statement confirming Jorge was alive and receiving care.
They said: “The Messi family reports that Jorge is going through a health situation…At this time, he is under medical supervision, recovering and progressing favourably within his condition.”
The family also criticised speculation around the matter, adding: “Only his closest family has real and accurate information about Jorge’s condition.”
“At times like this, we ask for responsibility, prudence and humanity.”
Pena has since stepped down from her role at Luzu TV and apologised to Messi’s family.
She said: “I apologise to the Messi family for the awful moment I imagine they are going through.”
“I am deeply ashamed to have been the vehicle for this pain.”
“I must clarify that this false information was provided to me during the live broadcast as verified by the production team of the show, and I trusted it.”
“Even so, I take responsibility for being part of the mistake, and that’s why I decided to step aside and end my participation in Luzu.”
“I apologise again from the heart; I was wrong.”
Luzu TV also issued a statement following the incident, saying: “We deeply regret the incident that occurred on air during the programme.”
“For our channel, broadcasting sensitive information without proper prior verification is unacceptable.”
“Consequently, Luzu TV management has decided to part ways with all those responsible, and Florencia Pena has decided to step aside.”
“We reaffirm our commitment to responsible, respectful, and rigorous communication.”
Messi has also addressed his visible emotion after the Algeria match, saying: “Why did I cry? It was something completely unrelated to football.”
“I went through some difficult days, but I’m grateful to the entire delegation and my team-mates because they were always by my side, giving me a lot of strength to help me get through it.”
Topics: Football, World Cup, Sport, TV And Film
Ben Williams