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Argentine football star Lionel Messi has been named the recipient of the 2026 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports in recognition of his outstanding career, sporting achievements and global influence.
The decision was announced on Wednesday by the jury of the Princess of Asturias Awards.
In a statement, the Princess of Asturias Foundation said Messi was selected for a career marked by sustained excellence, remarkable success on the field and a lasting impact on sport worldwide.
Born in Rosario, Argentina, in 1987, Messi began his football journey with Newell’s Old Boys before joining FC Barcelona’s La Masia academy at the age of 13. He made his senior debut in 2004 and went on to become one of the most decorated players in football history.
During his time at FC Barcelona, Messi won 35 trophies, including four UEFA Champions League titles and 10 La Liga crowns. He later played for Paris Saint-Germain before moving to Inter Miami CF in the United States.
On the international stage, Messi captained Argentina to victory at the 2022 Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) World Cup and also won two Copa América titles.
The foundation said his journey from overcoming a childhood growth disorder to becoming a global sporting icon is a testament to perseverance, humility and commitment to teamwork. It also acknowledged his charitable activities through the Leo Messi Foundation and his work as a United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Goodwill Ambassador.
According to the foundation, the award honours individuals whose achievements in sport and social commitment demonstrate the positive impact of sporting activity on society.
Messi’s list of individual honours includes eight Ballon d’Or awards, three FIFA Best Men’s Player titles and six European Golden Boots. He also holds the record for the most goals scored in a calendar year after netting 91 goals in 2012.
The footballer was selected from 27 nominations representing 12 nationalities.
The award ceremony is scheduled to take place in October in Oviedo, Spain, under the patronage of the Spanish royal family. The prize includes a sculpture designed by Joan Miró, a diploma, an insignia and a cash award of €50,000.
