Messi received the award a few days before the announcement of the 2026 Ballon d'Or winner in London.

The 39-year-old football legend received the award from Princess Leonor at the Teatro Campoamor during a ceremony presided over by King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia. His wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, was also present at the event.

The jury, chaired by Paralympic swimmer Teresa Perales, selected Messi from 27 candidates representing 12 nationalities.

The panel recognised his “dazzling talent”, “exceptional sporting career” and “formidable and ongoing charitable work” aimed at improving access to education and healthcare for disadvantaged children.

Reacting to the honour in a post on X, Barcelona congratulated their former captain, describing the award as a deserved recognition of his achievements on and off the pitch.

“Congratulations to Leo Messi for the 2026 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports. A well-deserved recognition for your exceptional talent, which has left an indelible mark on and off the pitch,” the club wrote.

Barcelona further highlighted the Argentine's historic connection with the club, stressing the important role the Catalan giants played throughout his career.

“A career full of successes during which FC Barcelona was a key part of your life and history. An inseparable bond that forms part of the club's legacy and for which your involvement will always be a source of pride,” the statement added.

Messi rose through Barcelona's famed La Masia academy before making his first-team debut in 2004. He spent 17 seasons with the senior team, leaving in 2021 after establishing himself as one of the club's greatest players.

During his time at Barcelona, the forward scored 672 goals in 778 official appearances and won 35 trophies, including four UEFA Champions League titles and 10 La Liga championships.

The latest recognition also makes Messi the first footballer to receive the Princess of Asturias Award for Sports as an individual.