Lionel Messi has been honoured with the 2026 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports, recognising an extraordinary career built on sustained excellence at the highest level.

The award celebrates Messi’s legendary legacy at Barcelona and a journey defined by consistent success with the club. 

Judges cited his impact on the sport and his record as one of football’s most influential figures.

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Barcelona celebrated the announcement with messages in Catalan and Spanish, calling it a "well-deserved recognition of an extraordinary career, defined by your legendary legacy at Barça and a journey filled with success with our Club."

The Princess of Asturias Awards are Spain’s most prestigious international honours, presented annually in Oviedo. 

The Sports category recognises athletes and teams for career achievement, values, and contribution to sport.