MESSI wins 2026 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports | OneFootball

According to El Periódico Mediterráneo, Lionel Messi has been awarded the 2026 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports, recognising an illustrious career and his sustained social commitment.

The jury cited his outstanding talent, exceptional sporting record and long-running support for disadvantaged children, particularly initiatives that widen access to education and healthcare.

Jury president Teresa Perales said the deliberation was not straightforward and described the robust debate as healthy. She highlighted Messi’s exemplary conduct on and off the pitch in a sport that can inflame passions, and noted his discreet personal involvement in charitable work.

Born in Rosario, Argentina, in 1987, Messi spent more than twenty years at Barcelona, winning 34 trophies, including 10 La Liga titles, four UEFA Champions Leagues and seven Copas del Rey. He left in 2021 for Paris Saint-Germain and now plays for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer.

Widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers, he is the only player with eight Ballons d’Or, and also owns six Golden Shoes and two World Cup Golden Balls. As Argentina captain he won the Copa América and crowned his international career with the Qatar 2022 World Cup. The honour recognises his sporting, social and international impact beyond football.

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo