Leo Messi wins 2026 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports | OneFootball

Leo Messi has been named the 2026 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports laureate, a leading international honour recognising careers of extraordinary significance and social impact.

According to Inter Miami, it is the first time the prize has gone to an individual footballer, with the award recognising his dazzling talent, a glittering sporting career and sustained philanthropy improving access to education and healthcare for disadvantaged children.

The accolade also reflects that Messi has won more titles than any player in the sport's history, and credits his exemplary conduct, consistency, humility and commitment to team play.

A World Cup winner with Argentina, Messi has been central to Inter Miami’s recent milestones, including the 2025 MLS Cup, the 2024 Supporters’ Shield and the 2023 Leagues Cup, the club's first official title, plus a historic FIFA Club World Cup appearance.

Since arriving in Miami, he has helped elevate football’s profile across North America and supported youth development initiatives, inspiring new generations of players and fans.

The Princess of Asturias Awards honour individuals and institutions across the arts, literature, social sciences, science and technology, international cooperation, concord, communication and humanities, and sport. Past sports recipients include Rafael Nadal, Michael Schumacher, Serena Williams and Eliud Kipchoge, while other categories have recognised Nelson Mandela, Jane Goodall, Martin Scorsese, J.K. Rowling and Bob Dylan, alongside international organisations advancing social and humanitarian progress.

Source: Inter Miami