Lionel Messi has been awarded the 2026 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports, the Princess of Asturias Foundation announced on June 3. The jury recognised the Argentine footballer’s outstanding career and his continued charitable work promoting access to education and healthcare for disadvantaged children.
The award is one of Spain’s prominent honours, recognising achievements across sports, science, culture and other fields. Messi’s selection adds to a career spanning more than two decades at the highest level of professional football.
The forward won numerous domestic and international titles with Barcelona, including multiple UEFA Champions League trophies. He later played for Paris Saint-Germain before joining Inter Miami in the United States.
With Argentina, Messi captained the national team to victory at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. He had also helped the country win the Copa América in 2021 and retained the continental title in 2024.
The foundation’s jury was chaired by Spanish Paralympic swimmer Teresa Perales Fernández. Messi’s nomination was submitted by David González Alonso, president of the Vetusta University of Oviedo Triathlon Club.
The jury highlighted not only Messi’s achievements on the pitch but also his consistency, humility and commitment to teamwork. His charitable work, including initiatives supporting children’s health and education, was also recognised.
Messi thanked the jury for the honour, describing it as a source of pride. He also acknowledged the contribution of teammates, family members and others who had supported his career.
The award recognises Messi’s sporting achievements and his wider influence beyond football. The foundation’s annual ceremony in Spain brings together recipients from several disciplines to celebrate their contributions.
