Lionel Messi was greeted by hundreds of supporters as he arrived in Oviedo on Thursday to receive the 2026 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports.

The Argentina legend travelled from the United States to northern Spain for the prestigious ceremony, which will take place at the Campoamor Theatre on Friday afternoon.

Messi, who was accompanied by his wife Antonela Roccuzzo and personal assistant Pepe Costa, was met by huge crowds outside the Hotel de la Reconquista.

Supporters had gathered from early in the morning hoping to catch a glimpse of the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, with his arrival sparking celebrations in the Spanish city.

Messi arrived in Oviedo at approximately 10:15am local time, where he was welcomed by Ana Isabel Fernandez, president of the Princess of Asturias Foundation.

The 39-year-old received a traditional Asturian welcome, complete with bagpipes, as supporters cheered his arrival.

After entering the hotel, Messi later returned outside alongside Fernandez to acknowledge the crowds who had waited to see him.

Despite the security presence, the former Barcelona forward took time to greet supporters and sign autographs.

The Argentine remains an enormously popular figure in Spain following his remarkable career at Barcelona, where he established himself as one of football’s greatest players.

Messi to receive Princess of Asturias Award for Sports

Messi has been selected as the 2026 recipient of the Princess of Asturias Award for Sports, recognising his extraordinary achievements and contribution to football.

The ceremony will take place at Oviedo’s Campoamor Theatre on Friday afternoon, with the Inter Miami forward expected to be among the main attractions.

His stay in Asturias will last less than 48 hours, but he has several engagements scheduled during his visit.

On Thursday afternoon, Messi is due to attend an event involving students and members of the region’s academic community.

Around 3,000 young people have been selected to participate after organisers received nearly 20,000 applications.