Lionel Messi wins 2026 Princess of Asturias Sports Award

MADRID, Spain — Argentine footballer Lionel Messi has been named the winner of Spain’s 2026 Princess of Asturias Sports Award, selected by a jury meeting in Madrid for his talent and charitable work. The jury chose Messi from 27 nominees representing 12 countries. The award citation also pointed to his achievements with the Argentina national team and in club football, as well as his work supporting children’s access to education and health care. The ceremony is scheduled for October in Oviedo, in northern Spain, and will be attended by King Felipe VI, Queen Letizia and Princess Leonor of Asturias. Messi will receive 50,000 euros, a certificate, a small sculpture and a medal. He was part of Argentina’s 2022 World Cup-winning squad and has played for Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Miami.