Jorge Messi discharged as fallout ends from Florencia Peña's false death report

Jorge Messi, the father of Argentina captain Lionel Messi, was released from hospital and returned to Rosario after several days of treatment, bringing relief to the family amid the 2026 World Cup.

The discharge followed a widely publicised misinformation incident in which Luzu TV host Florencia Peña announced on air that Jorge Messi had died. The claim was quickly refuted by the Messi family, who demanded respect for their privacy. The false report sparked outrage on social media and prompted a broader debate about journalistic responsibility in streaming platforms.

Peña publicly apologized, acknowledged the error, and later announced her departure from Luzu TV. Channel owner Nicolás Occhiato confirmed her dismissal and the termination of the production team involved. Rumours of legal action were dispelled when journalist Ángel de Brito posted, “No habrá ninguna acción judicial de Flor Peña contra Luzu.”

The episode also generated commentary from public figures, including Ramiro Marra’s on‑air remark, “Si salimos campeones, perdono a Florencia Peña,” highlighting the scandal’s reach beyond sports media. The incident remains a cautionary example of the risks of unverified reporting during major sporting events.