Ex-Argentina captain Lionel Messi has received the 2026 Princesa de Asturias Award for Sport, describing the recognition as an honour that goes beyond his achievements on the football pitch.

Messi spoke about the significance of the award, revealing that his father was particularly excited about the recognition and insisted that he attend the ceremony despite his demanding match schedule.

As reported by Fabrizio Romano on X on Friday, Messi was quoted as saying, “My father was extremely excited about this award.

“We knew it would be difficult because of my match schedule, but he really insisted that we come, that I travel here to spend these days and receive the award,” he said.

The Inter Miami forward said the honour represented more than his accomplishments throughout his illustrious football career, highlighting its broader significance.

“This award goes beyond what you do on the pitch or what I’ve achieved throughout my career,” he said.

Messi added that his father was delighted by the recognition and expressed confidence that he would continue to share in the joy of the achievement.

“Honestly, he was very happy about this recognition and that’s why I’m sure he’s enjoying it too,” he said.

The award adds to Messi’s long list of individual honours following a career in which he has established himself as one of football’s most decorated players.

The Argentine has won multiple Ballon d’Or titles, lifted the FIFA World Cup with Argentina in 2022 and enjoyed considerable success at club level, including during his time at Barcelona.

The Princesa de Asturias Awards recognise outstanding achievements across several fields, including sport, the arts, science and international cooperation.