An Argentine television host has resigned after incorrectly reporting that Lionel Messi's father had died. Florencia Peña announced on Luzu TV that Jorge Messi had passed away and suggested Messi would not play further in the World Cup. The Messi family later confirmed that Jorge was hospitalized with an undisclosed issue but was recovering.
Resignation and Apology
Peña stepped down from her role and apologized to the Messi family, blaming the production crew for feeding her false information through her earpiece during a live broadcast. She wrote on social media, "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." She clarified that the incorrect information was provided by the show's production team and that she 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," she added.
Network Response
Luzu, a popular news source in Argentina launched in 2020, also issued an apology and stated that "those responsible" had been dismissed. The network said, "We deeply regret the incident that occurred on air during the programme. For our channel, broadcasting sensitive information without proper prior verification is unacceptable." Luzu TV management decided to part ways with all those responsible, and Peña decided to step aside. The network reaffirmed its commitment to responsible and rigorous communication.
Sponsorship Fallout
According to Argentine media reports, up to 10 brands immediately ended their sponsorship of Luzu following the incident.
Family Statement
The Messi family expressed profound discomfort at the lack of sensitivity and respect shown. They stated, "In light of the versions, rumours and speculation that have circulated in recent hours, the family wishes to express their profound discomfort at the lack of sensitivity, respect and scruples with which some individuals have treated a strictly private and family matter." They emphasized that only close family members have accurate information about Jorge's condition and urged responsibility, prudence, and humanity.
World Cup Context
Lionel Messi is participating in his record sixth World Cup. He scored a hat-trick in Argentina's 3-0 win over Algeria on Tuesday in Kansas City. The reigning champions continue Group J action against Austria on Monday in Arlington, Texas. Algeria has sent a letter to FIFA's refereeing commission about alleged poor officiating during the match, particularly regarding an incident where Messi stood on the calf of Algeria captain Aïssa Mandi with the score at 1-0. Algeria fans called for a red card, but Messi was not punished and went on to score a hat-trick. The match was refereed by Poland's Szymon Marciniak, who officiated the 2022 World Cup final in Qatar.
