Lionel Messi has added another prestigious honor to his legendary career, receiving Spain’s 2026 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports during a ceremony in Oviedo on Friday, October 23. The Argentine football icon accepted the distinction from Princess Leonor, heir to the Spanish throne.
The award recognizes Messi’s extraordinary achievements in football, his lasting influence on the sport, and his continued charitable work supporting access to education and healthcare for disadvantaged children.
The selection jury praised Messi’s exceptional career, dazzling talent, consistency, humility, and commitment to teamwork. The honor also recognizes his work through charitable initiatives, including efforts to improve the lives of vulnerable children.
A World Cup champion with Argentina and an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, Messi spent more than two decades at FC Barcelona before playing for Paris Saint-Germain and joining Inter Miami. His achievements have made him one of the most celebrated figures in football history.
During the ceremony, Princess Leonor praised Messi’s unique career and his ability to make extraordinary performances appear routine while placing the collective game above individual glory. Messi also expressed his excitement about receiving an award that he said goes beyond sports.
The Princess of Asturias Awards honor outstanding contributions across sports, arts, science, and other fields. Messi’s recognition highlights not only his remarkable success on the pitch but also the positive impact of his work beyond football.
