Messi Makes History as Barcelona, Inter Miami Celebrate Asturias Award

Spanish giants Barcelona and Major League Soccer club Inter Miami have congratulated Argentine football superstar Lionel Messi after he received the 2026 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports, becoming the first individual footballer to win the prestigious honour.

Messi received the award from Princess Leonor of Spain during a ceremony at the Campoamor Theatre in Oviedo on Friday, October 23, 2026. The recognition celebrates his remarkable football career, sporting achievements and contributions to society beyond the pitch.

Barcelona, where Messi spent more than two decades of his career, praised their former captain for his exceptional talent, commitment to football and charitable work.

In a message shared on social media, the Spanish club described the award as richly deserved, highlighting the Argentine’s lasting impact both on and off the pitch.

Barcelona also reflected on Messi’s enduring connection with the club, noting that his successful career had become an inseparable part of its history and legacy.

The 38-year-old joined Barcelona’s youth academy at the age of 13 and went on to become the club’s all-time leading goalscorer, recording 672 goals and winning 35 trophies before leaving in 2021.

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Inter Miami, where Messi currently serves as captain, also celebrated the achievement, describing it as recognition of his influence beyond football.

“Congratulations, captain, on receiving the 2026 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports. Your talent makes history. Your values leave a mark that goes far beyond soccer,” the American club said in its congratulatory message.

The Princess of Asturias Foundation recognised Messi for his extraordinary sporting career, exceptional talent and continued charitable work to improve access to education and healthcare for disadvantaged children.

The award jury also highlighted his humility, consistency, respect for others and commitment to teamwork, describing qualities that have earned him admiration across the football world.

Messi expressed happiness at receiving the honour, explaining that it carried significance beyond his achievements on the pitch. Having lived in Spain for more than 20 years during his Barcelona career, he said he understood the importance of the recognition.

The Argentine’s trip to Oviedo was particularly emotional following the recent death of his father, Jorge Messi. Reports said his father had encouraged him to travel to Spain to receive the award, making the occasion even more meaningful to the football star.

The latest honour adds to Messi’s extraordinary collection of individual and team achievements, which includes eight Ballon d’Or awards and the 2022 FIFA World Cup with Argentina.

His recognition also reinforces his standing as a global sporting figure whose influence extends beyond goals, trophies and individual records.