Former Barcelona captain Lionel Messi has received the 2026 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports, with his former club and current team, Inter Miami, congratulating the Argentine football star on the prestigious honour.
Messi received the award at a ceremony held at the Campoamor Theatre in Oviedo, Spain, on Friday, October 23, becoming the first footballer to win the honour individually.
Barcelona praised their former captain in a message posted on its official X account, describing the award as recognition of his exceptional talent, commitment to sport and charitable contributions.
The Spanish club also highlighted Messi’s lasting influence on and off the pitch, noting that his successful career and association with Barcelona remain an important part of the club’s history.
“Congratulations Leo Messi for the 2026 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports.
“Richly deserved recognition for your outstanding talent, which has left a lasting impact both on and off the pitch, making you a benchmark in world football due to your excellence, commitment to sport and solidarity.
“A highly successful career during which FC Barcelona was a key part of your life and story. An inseparable bond that forms part of the Club’s legacy and for which your involvement will always be a source of pride,” Barcelona said.
Inter Miami, where Messi currently plays, also celebrated their captain’s achievement in a message shared on X.
“Congratulations, captain, on receiving the 2026 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports. Your talent makes history. Your values leave a mark that goes far beyond soccer,” the Major League Soccer club said.
The award jury recognised Messi’s outstanding career, sporting achievements, humility and charitable efforts to improve children’s access to education and healthcare.
Messi spent more than two decades at Barcelona, where he established himself as one of the club’s greatest players and won numerous domestic and international titles before leaving in 2021.
He subsequently joined Paris Saint-Germain before moving to Inter Miami in 2023, continuing his career in Major League Soccer.
The 38-year-old’s latest honour adds to an extraordinary collection of individual and team achievements, including eight Ballon d’Or awards and the 2022 FIFA World Cup title with Argentina.
His recognition with the Princess of Asturias Award for Sports further highlights his influence on global football and his contributions beyond the game.