MADRID, Oct. 22 (Xinhua) -- Lionel Messi paid tribute to his late father Jorge on Thursday as he prepared to receive the 2026 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports, saying the honor recognized values that extended far beyond his achievements on the football pitch.
The former FC Barcelona star and 2022 World Cup winner arrived in the northern Spanish city of Oviedo on Thursday ahead of Friday's award ceremony, which will be presided over by Spain's King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia.
Messi was named the winner of this year's sports award, with the jury praising his "dazzling talent" and "exceptional athletic career," as well as "his formidable and ongoing philanthropic work to promote access to education and healthcare for the most disadvantaged children."
Speaking at Oviedo's Hotel de la Reconquista, Messi reflected on the values of commitment, respect and solidarity instilled in him by his father Jorge, who died in August.
Messi recalled that his father had told him the award went "beyond what you do on the pitch" and had urged him to travel to Oviedo to accept it.
The Argentine said he was "very excited," "very happy" and "very grateful" for the recognition after being greeted by hundreds of fans outside the hotel.
Messi also reflected on the lessons he learned during his years at Barcelona, emphasizing that success in football depended on discipline and responsibilities beyond matchday performances.
"Football is the result of many other things that must be done - many responsibilities that you have before going to train or play," he said.
He stressed that training was essential "for growth" and helped players arrive at competitions "with the best possible tools."
Turning to his charitable work, Messi said he preferred to help others "without anyone knowing," explaining that such efforts should come from genuine concern rather than a desire for recognition.
"You do it from the heart and you truly care," he said. ■
