Lionel Messi to Receive Princess of Asturias Award Two Days Before Inter Miami Match

Inter Miami coach Cristian 'Kily' González confirmed Lionel Messi will travel to Oviedo, Spain, on Oct. 22 to receive the 2026 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports.

Inter Miami coach Cristian "Kily" González confirmed that Lionel Messi will travel to Oviedo, Spain, on Oct. 22 to receive the 2026 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports. The ceremony takes place just two days before Inter Miami faces the New York Red Bulls in Harrison, New Jersey. González stated on Friday that he has no concerns regarding the travel schedule and intends to count on Messi for the upcoming MLS fixture.

Messi is the first individual football player to be honored with this recognition, which was determined by a jury including foundation president Teresa Perales. The award acknowledges achievements across multiple fields, including international cooperation and scientific research, in addition to athletics. The Inter Miami captain currently leads the MLS Golden Boot race with 23 goals, holding a four-goal advantage over Petar Musa of FC Dallas.

Inter Miami, currently second in the Eastern Conference table, secured a 2026 MLS playoff berth on Wednesday. Before the match against the Red Bulls, the club is scheduled to visit Atlanta United FC on Saturday. González noted that the entire club supports Messi’s attendance at the event, describing the honor as significant for both the player and his family.