Football legend Lionel Messi has received a massive welcome from supporters in Oviedo, Spain, ahead of the presentation of the 2026 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports.
The Argentine superstar arrived in the northern Spanish city on Thursday, October 22, drawing hundreds of fans to the Hotel de la Reconquista, where this year's award recipients are staying.
Messi appeared alongside his wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, greeting supporters who had gathered for hours to catch a glimpse of the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner. He signed jerseys and photographs as excitement grew around his visit.
The Inter Miami forward is scheduled to receive the prestigious award on Friday, October 23, at the Teatro Campoamor in Oviedo.
Fans Turn Out to Welcome Messi
Messi's arrival created a major buzz among supporters, including children wearing Argentina and Barcelona shirts.
Fans gathered outside the hotel well before his appearance, hoping to meet the player who enjoyed an extraordinary career with Barcelona before moving to Paris Saint-Germain and later joining Inter Miami in Major League Soccer.
The reception reflected Messi's enduring popularity in Spain, where he spent more than two decades of his life and established himself as one of football's most celebrated players.
His return has also attracted attention because the Princess of Asturias Award recognises achievements beyond individual match performances, including an athlete's wider contribution to sport and society.
Why Messi Is Receiving the Award
The Princess of Asturias Foundation announced Messi as the winner of the 2026 Sports Award earlier this year.
The jury recognised his exceptional football career, sustained success, humility, commitment to teamwork and charitable work supporting disadvantaged children.
His philanthropic activities include efforts to improve children's access to healthcare and education through initiatives associated with the Leo Messi Foundation.
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Messi has won major honours with Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, Inter Miami and Argentina. His international achievements include leading Argentina to victory at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
He is the first individual footballer to receive the Princess of Asturias Award for Sports, making the recognition a significant milestone in his career.
Messi Reflects on His Barcelona Years
During his visit to Oviedo, Messi also reflected on his time at Barcelona, the club where he spent most of his professional career before leaving in 2021.
He recalled the experience of sharing a dressing room with former teammates including Xavi Hernández, Andrés Iniesta and Carles Puyol, highlighting the enjoyment of training and competing together.
Messi said he retained a special affection for Barcelona and the city because of the many memorable experiences he had there.
His comments underline the lasting connection between the Argentine and the country where he developed into a global football icon.
Award Ceremony Set for Friday
Messi's visit includes activities connected to the awards programme, including an event involving students and members of the public.
The official ceremony will take place on Friday at the Teatro Campoamor, where Spain's royal family is expected to participate in presenting this year's honours.
The Princess of Asturias Awards recognise outstanding contributions across several fields, including sports, arts, science, literature and international cooperation.
For Messi, the award adds another distinction to a career already marked by major team trophies, international success and individual honours.
His reception in Oviedo has demonstrated the continuing enthusiasm surrounding the footballer as he returns to Spain for a recognition that celebrates both his sporting achievements and his work beyond the pitch.