World Cup presenter quits mid-tournament after Lionel Messi controversy

Messi's father was wrongfully claimed to be dead -Credit:Omar Vega, Getty Images

Argentine TV host Florencia Pena has resigned mid-World Cup after falsely claiming that Lionel Messi's father, Jorge, had passed away after the soccer icon appeared emotional following the first of his three goals against Algeria.

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Pena made the assertion before the Messi family issued a statement confirming that Jorge is experiencing a "health situation," alleging the Inter Miami star was "going to have to leave" Argentina's World Cup defense. "I don't want to break bad news, but Messi's father just died," Pena stated on Luzu TV's El Show del Verano. "Right in the middle of the World Cup, he's going to have to leave," she added.

Later on Thursday, Pena issued a statement apologizing for the error, saying she was "deeply ashamed" of what had transpired. Meanwhile, Australians have already made their sentiments clear on Donald Trump ahead of the USA match.

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Pena also announced her exit from Luzu TV. "I apologize to the Messi family for the awful moment I imagine they are going through," she said. "I am deeply ashamed to have been the vehicle for this pain."

"I must clarify that this false information was provided to me during the live broadcast, as verified by the production team of the show, and I 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. I apologize again from the heart; I was wrong."

Florencia Pena resigned from her job after falsely claiming Lionel Messi's dad had died

Luzu TV also issued a statement apologizing to its viewers for their former presenter's on-air error.

The network expressed remorse over broadcasting unverified reports. "We deeply regret the incident that occurred on air during the program. For our channel, broadcasting sensitive information without proper prior verification is unacceptable," they said.

"Consequently, Luzu TV management has decided to part ways with all those responsible, and Florencia Pena has decided to step aside. We reaffirm our commitment to responsible, respectful, and rigorous communication."

Messi's father, Jorge, is facing a health "situation" -Credit:X

The Messi family released a statement on Thursday, confirming that Messi's father, Jorge, is dealing with a "health situation," following the legendary No. 10's visible distress during the Algeria game.

"Jorge is going through a health situation," the Messi family said in a statement. "He is currently under medical observation, recovering and progressing favorably within his current condition," the statement continued.

"At times like these, we ask for responsibility, prudence and humanity," the family concluded. "A person's health and the peace of mind of their loved ones should not be the subject of speculation or irresponsible media interest."

The Messi family were forced to release a statement -Credit:Photo by Ulrik Pedersen/NurPhoto via Getty Images

Argentina's next World Cup fixture is set for June 22 against Austria at the Dallas Cowboys' AT&T Stadium.

The defending champions currently lead Group J, level on points but one goal ahead of Austria. Victory would guarantee Argentina's progression to the knockout rounds of the competition.

That said, a draw could also be sufficient, as the top eight third-place finishers will advance.

Elsewhere, a World Cup coach was caught on the sideline making a startling remark following Ismael Kone's injury.

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