Messi arrives in Oviedo for Princess of Asturias sports award
Tickets for the footballer’s meeting with young people and schoolchildren sold out in barely 13 minutes.
Leo Messi has arrived in Oviedo ahead of the ceremony for the 2026 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports on 23 October. Hundreds of supporters welcomed the Argentine footballer, who is being recognised for his sporting record and work supporting children.
Accompanied by his wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, the Inter Miami player reached the city at around 13:00 on Thursday. Teresa Sanjurjo, director of the Princess of Asturias Foundation, welcomed him as supporters applauded and bagpipes played. Messi stopped briefly to sign photographs and shirts.
The awards ceremony is scheduled at the Teatro Campoamor. A separate event bringing Messi together with young people and schoolchildren at the Palacio de los Deportes in Oviedo drew enough demand for tickets to sell out in barely 13 minutes.
Messi has won 47 career titles. The jury commended his talent and sporting career, alongside charitable efforts aimed at helping disadvantaged children obtain education and healthcare.
