Argentine TV presenter Florencia Pena has resigned mid-World Cup after falsely claiming that Lionel Messi's father, Jorge, had passed away. The false report came following the football legend's emotional display after scoring the first of his three goals against Algeria.
False Allegation on Live TV
Pena made the unfounded allegation before the Messi family issued a statement confirming that Jorge is facing a "health situation." She claimed that the Inter Miami star was "going to have to leave" Argentina's World Cup title defence.
"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.
Apology and Resignation
Later on Thursday, Pena issued a statement apologising for the error, saying she was "deeply ashamed" of what had transpired. She also confirmed 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 apologise again from the heart; I was wrong."
Luzu TV's Response
Luzu TV has also issued a public apology to its viewers following their former presenter's on-air blunder. The broadcaster expressed remorse over airing unverified claims.
"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 Family Statement
The Messi family broke their silence on Thursday, confirming that Lionel's father, Jorge, is facing a "health situation," following the football icon's visible distress during the Algeria fixture.
"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. At times like these, we ask for responsibility, prudence and humanity. A person's health and the peace of mind of their loved ones should not be the subject of speculation or irresponsible media interest."
Argentina's World Cup Campaign
Argentina's next World Cup fixture is on June 22 against Austria at the Dallas Cowboys' AT&T Stadium. The defending champions currently sit top of Group J, level on points but with a superior goal difference to Austria. Victory will guarantee Argentina's progression to the knockout phase of the competition. Even a draw could prove sufficient, given that eight of the strongest third-placed sides will advance.
