FC Barcelona has congratulated Lionel Messi after the Argentine superstar won the 2026 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports. The prestigious Spanish honor recognizes his outstanding football career and contributions beyond the pitch.
Messi became the first individual football player to receive the award. He formally accepted the distinction during a ceremony in Oviedo, Spain, on Friday, October 23.
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Barcelona celebrated the achievement through an Instagram post, highlighting Messi’s lasting impact on football and his connection with the club.
“Congratulations Leo Messi for the 2026 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports,” Barcelona wrote. The club described the recognition as richly deserved, praising his talent, commitment to sport, and solidarity.
“Richly deserved recognition for your outstanding talent, which has left a lasting impact both on and off the pitch, making you a benchmark in world football due to your excellence, commitment to sport and solidarity,” Barcelona wrote.
The statement also emphasized Messi’s enduring relationship with Barcelona, where he established himself as one of the greatest players in the club’s history.
Barcelona highlights Lionel Messi’s lasting legacy
Barcelona’s tribute focused on Messi’s influence both on and off the pitch. The club credited his excellence and commitment with making him a benchmark in world football.
“A highly successful career during which FC Barcelona was a key part of your life and story,” the statement continued. “An inseparable bond that forms part of the Club’s legacy and for which your involvement will always be a source of pride.”
Messi spent the majority of his professional career at Barcelona, winning numerous domestic and international trophies. His achievements included multiple Champions League titles and Spanish league championships before his departure in 2021.
His international success further strengthened his legacy. Messi captained Argentina to the 2022 FIFA World Cup title and later celebrated additional success with the national team.
The Princess of Asturias Award recognizes individuals and organizations whose achievements demonstrate exceptional contributions across various fields. Messi’s selection reflects both his sporting accomplishments and his wider social impact.
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Barcelona’s message underlined the special relationship between the club and its former captain. Despite his departure several years ago, Messi remains closely connected to the club’s history and supporters.
The latest honor adds another milestone to a career that has shaped modern football. For Barcelona, celebrating Messi’s achievement also means recognizing a defining chapter in its own history.
