Argentine football icon Lionel Messi has been named the recipient of the 2026 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports, in recognition of his outstanding career achievements, global influence, and contributions to society through sport.
Key Highlights:
- Lionel Messi won the 2026 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports for his sporting achievements and social impact.
- Messi was recognized for his outstanding career, global influence, and charitable work.
- He won major titles with FC Barcelona and led Argentina national football team to the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
- The award ceremony will take place in Oviedo in October.
- The honor includes a sculpture, diploma, insignia, and a €50,000 prize.
The announcement was made on Wednesday by the jury of the prestigious Spanish award, which celebrates individuals and institutions whose work has made significant contributions to humanity.
In a statement, the Princess of Asturias Foundation said Messi was selected for a career marked by sustained excellence, extraordinary sporting success, and a lasting impact on millions of people around the world.
Born on June 24, 1987, in Rosario, Argentina, Messi began his football journey with Newell’s Old Boys before moving to the famed La Masia academy of FC Barcelona at the age of 13.
He made his senior debut for Barcelona in 2004 and went on to become one of the most decorated players in football history.
During his illustrious spell with the Catalan giants, Messi won 35 major trophies, including four UEFA Champions League titles, 10 La Liga championships, seven Copa del Rey crowns, and three FIFA Club World Cups.
Following his departure from Barcelona, Messi played for Paris Saint-Germain before joining Inter Miami CF in Major League Soccer, where he currently continues his professional career.
On the international stage, Messi cemented his legacy by leading Argentina national football team to victory at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar and winning two Copa América titles.
Widely regarded as one of football’s greatest players, Messi has amassed 47 career titles and an array of individual honours.
His achievements include a record eight Ballon d’Or awards, three The Best FIFA Men’s Player trophies, and six European Golden Boots.
The football superstar also holds the Guinness World Record for the most goals scored in a calendar year, having netted 91 times in 2012.
Additionally, he was named Laureus World Sportsman of the Year in 2020 and 2023.
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Beyond his exploits on the pitch, the foundation highlighted Messi’s inspiring journey in overcoming a childhood growth hormone deficiency and praised his commitment to charitable causes through the Leo Messi Foundation.
It also acknowledged his work as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador.
According to the foundation, the award recognizes individuals whose sporting careers and social commitment exemplify the positive values and benefits of sport.
Messi emerged from a shortlist of 27 candidates representing 12 nationalities to claim this year’s sports award, which is the sixth category to be announced in the 46th edition of the Princess of Asturias Awards.
The award ceremony is scheduled to take place in October in Oviedo, Spain, and will be attended by King Felipe VI, Queen Letizia, Princess Leonor, and Infanta Sofia.
Recipients of the prestigious honour receive a sculpture designed by renowned Spanish artist Joan Miro, a diploma, an insignia, and a cash prize of €50,000.
The latest recognition further strengthens Messi’s place among the most celebrated athletes in history, adding another major accolade to a career that has redefined excellence in world football.
