Lionel Messi wins the prestigious Princess of Asturias Award for Sports 2026
The jury cited his 47 trophies, eight Ballon d'Or awards and charitable work through the Messi Foundation.
- The Princess of Asturias Foundation awarded Lionel Messi the 2026 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports. A jury chaired by Paralympic swimmer Teresa Perales selected Messi from 27 nominations representing 12 nationalities.
- "Exemplary behavior on the field and for his perseverance," Perales emphasized, noting his 47 professional trophies. The Argentine prevailed due to his exceptional sporting achievements and charitable work to promote access to education for disadvantaged children.
- This honor marks the first time the Princess of Asturias Award for Sports has been granted individually to a footballer. Previously, the award recognized the Brazil and Spain national teams, as well as Iker Casillas and Xavi Hernández.
- Organizers will present the award at the Campoamor Theater in Oviedo during the forty-sixth edition this October. The prize includes a reproduction of a Joan Miró sculpture, a diploma, a badge, and €50,000.
- "Extraordinary sporting career and competitive mindset," the foundation stated, honoring 2025 winner Serena Williams. Messi succeeds her as the 2026 winner, as the Princess of Asturias Foundation continues its annual recognition across eight categories, with Literature and Concord awards still pending.
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Lionel Messi Honoured, Becomes 1st Footballer To Receive Special Individual Award
Inter Miami CF star and reigning world champion Lionel Messi has been awarded the 2026 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports, becoming the first individual footballer to receive the prestigious honour.
The captain of Argentina thanked for the recognition that also values his solidarity work outside the courts
Football superstar Lionel Messi has received the prestigious Princess of Asturias Prize in the Sports Division in Spain! The 38-year-old Argentinean is the "most successful footballer of all time" with 47 titles, the jury declared at the announcement of the winner in Oviedo in northern Spain. The victory of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar with the "Albiceleste" has "finally consolidated his sporting legacy". Messi enjoys worldwide respect and admira…
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