Inter Miami Salutes Messi After He Receives Spain’s Princess of Asturias Sports Award
Inter Miami joins worldwide tributes as Lionel Messi is honoured in Spain
Miami’s MLS side added its voice to the chorus of congratulations that poured in for Lionel Messi after the Argentine legend was presented with the 2026 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports. The club shared a celebratory post on its official X account, praising the captain’s achievements and the values he embodies beyond the football field.
Club’s message to the captain
In the short video posted by Inter Miami, the message read in Spanish: "Congratulations, captain, on receiving the 2026 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports. Your talent makes history. Your values leave a mark that goes far beyond soccer." The tweet was accompanied by the club’s emblem and the hashtag #Messi.
What the award recognises
The Princess of Asturias Awards are among Spain’s most prestigious civilian honours. Messi received his trophy at the historic Teatro Campoamor in Oviedo, where Princess Leonor handed him the medal in front of a standing ovation. The jury highlighted several reasons for the selection:
- He holds the record for the greatest number of titles in the history of football.
- His technical brilliance and consistency at the highest level.
- A humble attitude that has made him a model for younger players.
- Extensive charitable work, especially projects that promote education and health care for children.
Messi becomes only the third footballer to win the prize, joining goalkeeper Iker Casillas and midfielder Xavi Hernández, who were honoured in 2012.
Princess Leonor’s remarks
During the ceremony, the princess described Messi as someone who "turns the extraordinary into routine" and who consistently places the collective effort above personal glory. Her words underscored the respect the award carries for both sporting excellence and personal character.
Messi’s personal tribute to his late father
Although Messi did not address the audience at the ceremony, he spoke with Spanish news agency EFE afterwards. He recalled the deep emotional significance of the accolade, dedicating it to his father, Jorge Messi, who had passed away earlier in the year. "My father was thrilled about this recognition," the forward said. "We knew the schedule would be tight, but he urged me to come, to be here and receive the award. This goes beyond what I achieve on the pitch; it is a tribute to his memory."
Messi explained that the trip to Oviedo was squeezed into a narrow window between club commitments. He spent roughly 36 hours in the Asturian city, declined the post‑ceremony cocktail, and flew straight back to the United States, illustrating his determination to honour his father's wishes while maintaining his professional responsibilities.
What lies ahead for Miami and Messi
Inter Miami will be back in action just days after the award ceremony, travelling to New Jersey to take on the New York Red Bulls on October 24. The match will be one of Messi’s first appearances in the MLS season following his historic move to the United States.
Two days later, the Argentine superstar is slated to attend the 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony in London, where he is among the shortlist of nominees. While the award in Spain adds another prestigious trophy to his cabinet, the Ballon d’Or will offer a chance to be recognised once again for his performances on the field.
Fans and the football world respond
Social media platforms have been flooded with messages of admiration, many echoing the sentiments expressed by Inter Miami. Supporters have highlighted Messi’s humility, his charitable initiatives, and his lasting impact on the sport. The combination of a personal tribute, a national honour, and a forthcoming MLS clash has created a unique moment of celebration for both the player and his new club.
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