Lionel Messi was greeted by hundreds of supporters as he arrived in Oviedo on Thursday to receive the 2026 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports. The Argentina legend travelled from the United States to northern Spain for the prestigious ceremony, which will take place at the Campoamor Theatre on Friday afternoon.Messi, who was accompanied by his wife Antonela Roccuzzo and personal assistant Pepe Costa, was met by huge crowds outside the Hotel de la Reconquista.Supporters had gathered from early in the morning hoping to catch a glimpse of the eight-time Ballon dOr winner, with his arrival sparking celebrations in the Spanish city.Messi arrived in Oviedo at approximately 10:15am local time, where he was welcomed by Ana Isabel Fernandez, president of the Princess of Asturias Foundation.The 39-year-old received a traditional Asturian welcome, complete with bagpipes, as supporters cheered his arrival.After entering the hotel, Messi later returned outside alongside Fernandez to acknowledge the crowds who had waited to see him.Despite the security presence, the former Barcelona forward took time to greet supporters and sign autographs.The Argentine remains an enormously popular figure in Spain following his remarkable career at Barcelona, where he established himself as one of footballs greatest players.Messi to receive Princess of Asturias Award for SportsMessi has been selected as the 2026 recipient of the Princess of Asturias Award for Sports, recognising his extraordinary achievements and contribution to football.The ceremony will take place at Oviedos Campoamor Theatre on Friday afternoon, with the Inter Miami forward expected to be among the main attractions.His stay in Asturias will last less than 48 hours, but he has several engagements scheduled during his visit.On Thursday afternoon, Messi is due to attend an event involving students and members of the regions academic community.Around 3,000 young people have been selected to participate after organisers received nearly 20,000 applications. Topics Lionel Messi If you enjoy reading this article, you can help support our independent football journalism by adding 101 Great Goals as a preferred source You Should Also Read He never ceases to amaze: Gonzalez backs Messi for 1,000 goals after Atlanta masterclass Tom Rostance 18th October, 2026 Atlanta United FC v Inter Miami: Preview, expected line-ups, stats and where to watch as Messi looks to add to goal tally Jon Fisher 15th October, 2026 Lionel Messi and Inter Miami are good for each other, says Gonzalez, as champions secure play-off spot Jon Fisher 15th October, 2026 Messi bags brace in first game since Argentina farewell Lauren Lister 11th October, 2026 Inter Miami v DC United: Preview, expected line-ups, stats and where to watch as Messi returns to MLS Jon Fisher 9th October, 2026 It was an incredible road: Messi speaks out after Argentina retirement Tom Rostance 7th October, 2026
