Lionel Messi arrives in Oviedo to receive the Princess of Asturias Award

Lionel Messi arrived in Oviedo, Spain, on October 22, 2026, via private jet from Miami to receive the prestigious Princess of Asturias Award for sports. The 39-year-old Inter Miami forward was welcomed by crowds of fans outside the Hotel Reconquista, where he is staying with his wife, Antonela Roccuzzo. The official award ceremony is scheduled for October 23 at the Campoamor Theater, followed by a formal dinner with the King and Queen of Spain.

Ahead of the ceremony, Messi participated in an event with the local academic and student community. In an interview with the EFE news agency, he reflected on his career, highlighting the 2022 World Cup victory in Qatar as the defining moment of his professional life. He emphasized that he wants to be remembered as a great athlete who never stopped pursuing his goals. Following the festivities in Oviedo, the Argentine star is expected to depart for New York.