Javier Milei's anti‑media stance linked to false report of Lionel Messi's father's death

President Javier Milei of Argentina has repeatedly denounced traditional journalists, promoting social‑media platforms such as X as reliable sources. This week a false story that Lionel Messi's father had died was aired on the online program Luzu TV, a claim that was later proven false. The misinformation spread by unidentified trolls on X reached the program, prompting an on‑air apology from host Florencia Peña. Critics say Milei’s hostility toward the press helped create an environment where unchecked rumors can circulate widely, highlighting the risks of relying on unverified social‑media content for news.

The incident underscores ongoing tensions in Argentina between the government’s push for a “new information paradigm” and the need for professional, fact‑checked journalism to prevent harmful rumors from affecting public figures and their families.