MESSI RECEIVES TOP SPANISH AWARD FROM HEIR TO THRONE

Lionel Messi has received the 2026 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports from Princess Leonor, Spain’s heir to the throne.

The Argentine football star was honoured on Friday at the Teatro Campoamor in Oviedo, where he joined other recipients recognised for achievements across sport, science, literature and the arts.

Accompanied by his wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, Messi received an ovation as he stepped forward to collect the award.

Earlier in the day, Princess Leonor presented commemorative insignia to the recipients during a reception at the Hotel de la Reconquista.

The honour adds to the recognition Messi has earned throughout a career that includes eight Ballon d’Or titles and a World Cup triumph with Argentina.

His visit also included an appearance before thousands of spectators and students in Oviedo, where he reflected on his early experiences in football.

During that engagement, Messi recalled how Ronaldinho and other senior Barcelona players helped him overcome his shyness when he entered the first-team dressing room at 16. Their advice, he said, was to enjoy playing and focus on what he loved.

The award ceremony brought together members of Spain’s royal family and distinguished guests to celebrate this year’s recipients.