Leo Messi receives the Princess of Asturias Award for Sports in Spain, recognising his football career and humanitarian contributions worldwide. The Argentine superstar collected the 2026 honour Friday at Oviedo’s Campoamor Theatre during a ceremony attended by Spain’s royal family.
Princess Leonor presented the award, while King Felipe VI, Queen Letizia, Infanta Sofía, and Queen Sofía attended the annual event. The Princess of Asturias Foundation selected Messi in June, highlighting his dazzling talent, exceptional achievements, humility, and sustained charitable work.
According to the jury, Messi’s efforts help disadvantaged children access education and healthcare through initiatives supporting the Leo Messi Foundation. The recognition extends beyond trophies, celebrating the forward’s positive influence and commitment to helping vulnerable communities through philanthropic projects.
Messi becomes the first individual footballer to win the Princess of Asturias Award for Sports, adding a historic distinction to his career. Previously, football-related winners included Spain’s national team in 2010, while Iker Casillas and Xavi Hernández shared the award in 2012.
During his career, Messi has won eight Ballon d’Or awards and helped Argentina capture the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. His club achievements include four UEFA Champions League titles and ten La Liga championships during his celebrated years with Barcelona.
After leaving Barcelona in 2021, Messi played for Paris Saint-Germain before joining Inter Miami, where he continues attracting global attention. Through the Leo Messi Foundation, the footballer supports programmes promoting children’s access to healthcare, education, and opportunities for disadvantaged families.
The honour also reflects Messi’s reputation for consistency, teamwork, humility, and conduct throughout a career spanning more than two decades. Messi’s Princess of Asturias Award places his legacy alongside figures recognised for contributions across culture, science, and public life.
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