Presenter Resigns After False Report Of Jorge Messi’s Death

Florencia Peña has stepped down from her role at Luzu TV after falsely announcing the death of Lionel Messi’s father, Jorge Messi, during a live broadcast, triggering widespread backlash across Argentina and forcing both the presenter and the media outfit to issue public apologies.

The controversy erupted on Thursday during El Show del Verano, just days after Messi inspired Argentina to a 3-0 win over Algeria in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. During the programme, Peña told viewers: “I don’t want to break bad news, but Messi’s father just died.” She went on to speculate that the Argentina captain would be forced to leave the tournament, saying: “Right in the middle of the World Cup, he’s going to have to leave.”

The claim quickly spread across social media before being firmly denied by the Messi family, who confirmed that Jorge Messi was alive and receiving treatment for an undisclosed health condition. In a statement, the family said: “The Messi family informs that Jorge Messi is currently going through a health-related situation. At this time, he is under medical supervision, recovering and progressing favourably within the condition he is experiencing.”

While providing an update on his recovery, the family strongly criticised the rumours surrounding his condition. “The family wishes to express its deep discomfort with the lack of sensitivity, respect, and discretion with which some people have treated what is strictly a private family matter,” the statement read. They also urged the public to disregard any information that did not come directly from official family channels.

Facing mounting criticism, Peña admitted the report had not been properly verified before it was broadcast. In a post on Instagram, she said: “I have to clarify that this false information was given to me live on air as if it had been checked by the show’s production team, and I trusted it.”

The 51-year-old presenter later apologised directly to the Messi family and announced her resignation from the channel. “I apologise to the Messi family for the awful moment I imagine they are going through. I am very ashamed to have been the vehicle for this pain,” Peña said. “I take responsibility for being part of the mistake, and that is why I decided to step aside and end my participation in Luzu.”

Luzu TV also condemned the incident, describing the dissemination of sensitive information without proper verification as unacceptable. The broadcaster confirmed disciplinary measures had been taken and reaffirmed its commitment to responsible and rigorous journalism.

The incident unfolded amid intense attention on Lionel Messi at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Argentina captain scored a hat-trick in the win over Algeria and was seen in tears after opening the scoring. Addressing the emotional moment after the match, Messi said: “I’ve had some tough days. It wasn’t related to football. I thank my teammates, the coaching staff and the delegation for helping me.”