Messi becomes first footballer to win Asturias award individually
Argentine football star Lionel Messi became the first footballer to receive Spain’s prestigious Princess of Asturias Award for Sports individually, accepting the 2026 distinction at a ceremony in the northern city of Oviedo on Friday.
The 39-year-old Inter Miami forward received the award from Princess Leonor at the Campoamor Theatre, with King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia also attending.
The award, announced on June 3, recognises Messi’s achievements in football, his charitable contributions and his commitment to values including humility, teamwork and fair play.
Jury highlights commitment to disadvantaged children
The award jury also praised Messi’s efforts to improve access to education and healthcare for disadvantaged children, highlighting his contributions beyond the football pitch.
His charitable work and commitment to collective success were among the reasons cited for the distinction.
Messi has enjoyed a career spanning some of football’s biggest stages, winning major club honours and international titles with Argentina.
Previous football winners honoured collectively
Although Messi is the first footballer to receive the sports award individually, the distinction has previously recognised prominent figures and teams from the sport.
Former Barcelona teammates Xavi Hernandez and Iker Casillas jointly received the award in 2012, while Brazil’s national football team was honoured in 2002 following its fifth World Cup triumph.
Messi’s individual recognition adds another distinction to a career defined by achievements at both club and international level, alongside his work supporting children and vulnerable communities.
