Messi Creates History! First Footballer Ever to Win Princess of Asturias Sports Award

Lionel Messi become the first individual football player to receive the prestigious 2026 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports. This award recognizes not only his extraordinary achievements on the football field but also with his humanitarian efforts and exemplary conduct throughout his long career.

Messi Becomes the First Individual Footballer to Receive the Award

Lionel Messi has created history by becoming the first ever individual football player to win the Princess of Asturias Award for Sports.

This award is one of the Spain’s most respected international honors and it recognizes the outstanding achievements in sports as well as contributions to society. The selection was made by a jury which led by Teresa Perales.

Messi has received the news while training with the Argentine national team ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup and he expressed the gratitude for the recognition and described it as a source of immense pride.

What is the Princess of Asturias Award?

The Princess of Asturias Awards are one of the Spain’s most prestigious international honors. They are presented annually to the individuals, organizations and institutions that have made the significant contributions in various fields.

Categories of the Award

• Sports
• Arts
• Literature
• Social Sciences
• Scientific and Technical Research
• International Cooperation
• Communication and Humanities

The award seeks to recognize the excellence, leadership and contributions that positively impact society at the global level.

Why Was Messi Chosen for the Award?

According to the jury, Leo was selected not only because of his remarkable sporting achievements in history but also due to his sustained charitable and humanitarian work for the society.

The jury highlighted the several qualities that contributed to the decision,

• Extraordinary football talent
• Historic sporting achievements
• Commitment to the education and healthcare initiatives
• Humility and professionalism
• Leadership and teamwork
• Positive influence beyond sports

The jury has also praised Messi’s consistent behavior on and off the field and emphasized the respect and admiration he commands worldwide.

Successful Career With Historic Achievements

Messi recognized as the one of the most successful player in the history of the football. Over the two decades, he has accumulated the numerous records, trophies and individual honors.

Major International Achievements

• Won the FIFA 2022 World Cup
• Won Multiple times Copa America in 2021 and 2024
• Won the Gold Medal at 2008 Beijing Olympics
• Won 10 LaLiga and 4 Champions Trophy
• 8 times Ballon d’or Winner (Top Honor in Football)