False reports circulated during Argentina’s opening match of the 2026 World Cup claiming the death of Jorge Messi, father of Lionel Messi. The rumors quickly spread online, causing concern among fans. However, these reports have been debunked; Jorge Messi is alive. The origin of the false information remains unclear, but it gained traction amidst the excitement surrounding the tournament’s kickoff. No official confirmation of his death was ever released, and sources close to the family have confirmed he is well. This incident highlights the rapid spread of misinformation, particularly on social media, during high-profile events.