Lionel Messi Arrives in Oviedo for 2026 Princess of Asturias Award

OPA WIRE, Oct 23 (OPA) — Lionel Messi arrived in Oviedo on Thursday accompanied by his wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, to accept the 2026 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports. The Inter Miami player touched down in the city at approximately 13:00, where he was welcomed by Teresa Sanjurjo, director of the Princess of Asturias Foundation, amidst a performance by local bagpipers.

Public interest in the visit has been significant, with tickets for a scheduled meeting between Messi and local schoolchildren at the Palacio de los Deportes selling out in 13 minutes. The formal awards ceremony is set to take place this Friday at the Teatro Campoamor, where the Argentine will be honored for his professional achievements and humanitarian efforts.

The jury selected Messi for the award in recognition of his decorated career, which includes 47 titles, and his ongoing commitment to charitable initiatives. The committee specifically highlighted his work in improving access to education and healthcare for disadvantaged children as a primary factor in his selection.

Messi spent time greeting fans upon his arrival, signing photographs and jerseys for those gathered at the site. The visit marks a high-profile appearance for the athlete, who continues to balance his professional commitments in the United States with international recognition for his contributions to the sport and social causes.