Leo Messi 2026 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports

At its meeting in Oviedo, the Jury for the 2026 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports, composed of Teresa Bernadas Porto, José Félix Díaz Fernández, Joaquín Folch-Rusiñol Corachán, Andrea Fuentes Fache, Juan Ignacio Gallardo Tomé, Patricia García Rodríguez, Santiago Nolla Zayas, Jennifer Pareja Lisalde, Alberto Suárez Laso, Joan Vehils Guasch and Theresa Zabell Lucas, chaired by Teresa Perales Fernández, Marchioness of Perales, and with Paloma del Río Cañadas acting as secretary, has decided to confer the 2026 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports on Argentinian footballer Leo Messi.

In addition to his dazzling talent, the Jury has highlighted his exceptional sporting career and his formidable and continued charitable work to promote access to education and health care for the most disadvantaged children.

Leo Messi, the player who has won the most titles in the history of football, has also earned the respect and admiration of everyone for his exemplary behaviour on the field and for his consistency, humility and commitment to the team game.

Oviedo, 3rd June 2026