Lionel Messi received Spain’s prestigious Princess of Asturias Award at a ceremony held at the Campoamor Theatre, where Princess Leonor presented the honour to the Argentine football superstar.

King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia of Spain were also present at the ceremony, which recognised Messi’s outstanding football career and humanitarian contributions.

The award acknowledges not only Messi’s achievements on the football pitch but also his charitable work through the Leo Messi Foundation and his involvement with UNICEF.

The Argentine forward has earned worldwide acclaim for his extraordinary performances, record-breaking achievements and lasting influence on the sport. Beyond football, his philanthropic initiatives have supported programmes focused on children’s health, education and development.

Following the ceremony, Messi departed for New York, where his club, Inter Miami, was scheduled to face the New York Red Bulls.