Messi Princess of Asturias Award: Lionel Messi wins 2026 sports honour in Spain for career excellence, global impact, and football achievements

Argentinian footballer Lionel Andrés Messi, currently of Inter Miami CF, has been named the recipient of the 2026 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports in Oviedo, Spain, on Wednesday, in recognition of his exceptional career, global influence, and sustained excellence in football.

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The announcement was made by the Princess of Asturias Foundation, which confirmed that Messi was selected by the jury for a career defined by extraordinary sporting achievements, consistency at the highest level, and his wider impact on world sport.

Born on 24 June 1987 in Rosario, Argentina, Messi began his football journey with Newell’s Old Boys before joining FC Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy at the age of 13, where he quickly rose through the ranks to become one of the most iconic players in the sport’s history.

He made his senior debut for Barcelona in 2004 and went on to enjoy a glittering spell spanning more than 15 years, during which he won 35 trophies, including four UEFA Champions League titles and 10 La Liga championships.

His honours also include seven Copa del Rey trophies, three FIFA Club World Cups, three UEFA Super Cups, and eight Spanish Super Cups.

Following his departure from Barcelona, Messi later joined Paris Saint-Germain before moving to Inter Miami CF, where he currently plays in Major League Soccer.

On the international stage, Messi captained Argentina to victory at the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 and has also lifted two Copa América titles, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest footballers in history.

The foundation described the award as a recognition of careers that advance sport and demonstrate strong social values, noting Messi’s influence both on and off the pitch.

It highlighted his resilience in overcoming early health challenges related to a growth condition in childhood, describing his journey as a powerful example of determination and discipline.

Messi has also been recognised for his philanthropic efforts through the Leo Messi Foundation and his role as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, further strengthening his global reputation beyond football.

Across his career, the Argentine star has won eight Ballon d’Or awards, three FIFA The Best awards, and six European Golden Shoes, alongside a record-breaking 91 goals scored in a single calendar year in 2012.

The Princess of Asturias Foundation noted that a total of 27 candidates from 12 nationalities were considered for this year’s sports category before Messi emerged as the final selection.

The award forms part of the foundation’s 46th edition, with previous winners including global figures from arts, science, and humanitarian fields.

The remaining categories, including Literature and Concord, are expected to be announced in the coming weeks, while the award ceremony is scheduled for October in Oviedo and will be presided over by the Spanish royal family.

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Each recipient of the award receives a Joan Miró sculpture, a diploma, an insignia, and a cash prize of €50,000.