An Argentinian television host has resigned after making a false announcement on television Lionel MessiHis father died in Argentina in 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign.Florencia Pena said this while appearing on Luzu TV just after the World Cup match against Algeria. In the broadcast, they informed viewers that Messi’s father, Jorge Messi, had died suddenly.“I don’t want to bring bad news, but Messi’s father died. It was sudden. In the middle of the World Cup,” he said on air.The report quickly turned out to be false, prompting Pena to issue a public apology and explain how the lies got to the live show. In a statement posted on X, he said he was told that the information had already been confirmed by the team behind the show.“I must explain that this false information was given to me during the live broadcast as confirmed by the show’s production team, and I believed it,” he wrote on Friday.“Even so, I take responsibility for making a mistake, that’s why I decided to stop going to Luzu, and I apologize from the bottom of my heart, I made a mistake,” he added.Luzu TV has also issued a statement condemning the broadcasting of unverified news and ensuring that it will be punished in this matter. The video emphasized that reporting sensitive issues without proper verification is inappropriate.“We at Luzu TV are deeply saddened by what happened on air during the El Show de Verano program. For our channel, the broadcast of popular information without proper verification is unacceptable.“For this reason, Luzu TV officials have decided to terminate the employment of all those involved and Florencia Pena has decided to resign from her position.“We reaffirm our commitment to reliable, respectful, and rigorous journalism.”In the midst of the controversy, Messi’s family released an update on Jorge Messi’s health, confirming that he is receiving undisclosed medical treatment.“Currently, he is under medical supervision, recovering and progressing according to his condition,” the family said.The incident happened just hours after Messi scored another memorable performance for Argentina. The 38-year-old captain scored a hat-trick as his side won 3-0 against Algeria in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.Messi looked very emotional during the match and admitted that he has had “difficult days” due to his non-football related problems.Argentina will continue their World Cup campaign against Austria on Monday.
