Lionel Messi Wins 2026 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports in Oviedo
· Sports · Times of India, Bernama
Lionel Messi received the 2026 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports at the Teatro Campoamor in Oviedo on Friday, becoming the first individual footballer to win the prize. The award recognises both his record-breaking football career and his philanthropic work supporting vulnerable children through his foundation. King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia presented the honour, which includes a Joan Miró sculpture, a diploma, an insignia and €50,000. The jury announced Messi as the recipient on June 3, citing his sporting excellence and humanitarian impact. Messi attended events with local schoolchildren before the ceremony and is expected to return to the United States for Inter Miami's match against the New York Red Bulls on October 24.
Why it matters
The award cements Messi's legacy beyond football, placing him alongside scientists, writers and humanitarians honoured by Spain's highest civilian distinction.
Read the original report — Times of India
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