Leo Messi has received the Premio Princesa de Asturias de los Deportes 2026, an award that has attracted numerous tributes from figures in the world of football. The award was awarded to the famous Argentine player during a ceremony at the Campoamor Theater in Oviedo, where his career was celebrated both for his talent on the field and for the human impact he had.
The president of FC Barcelona, Joan Laporta, expressed his esteem for Messi with a message published on Laporta also highlighted the indissoluble bond between the player and the team, stating that the "shared success story" between Messi and Barça is a source of pride for all Barcelonistas and that he wants it to be eternal.
During an interview with Televisión Española's Telediario, Laporta delved into why Messi was so important to the club. He described the “extraordinary connection” that developed between a unique player and a club whose footballing identity was a perfect fit for Leo's talent. According to the president, this synergy was fundamental to achieving Barcelona's most ambitious goals.
Other former players and football personalities also expressed their admiration for the award. Andrés Iniesta said he was "lucky" and "joyful" in having had the opportunity to play alongside Messi, while Jorge Valdano compared the recognition Leo received to that of Diego Maradona, underlining how Argentina has produced another footballing genius. Valdano expressed his surprise at Messi's ability to exceed expectations, calling his career "unlikely but accomplished."
With the prize up for grabs, Messi joins a list of champions who have left an indelible mark on the history of football. The recognition not only celebrates his exploits on the field, but also his role as a role model for future generations. For Barcelona, the award reinforces the image of a club that has been able to attract and enhance extraordinary talents, consolidating its reputation as the "home of champions". The club's future remains focused on new challenges, but Messi's memory will continue to inspire both fans and players who follow in his footsteps.