Lionel Messi is facing demands to be stripped of the Princess of Asturias Award for Sports after Argentina's turbulent World Cup final loss to Spain.
The 39-year-old had been chosen as the winner of the prize, which honours exceptional contributions to sport, science, the humanities and public affairs. However, the decision has been met with growing criticism since Argentina's 1-0 extra-time defeat in New Jersey.
Incidents during the final
Messi was seen attempting to get Spain's Marc Cucurella sent off during the match. His team-mates have since become the subject of a FIFA investigation after tempers boiled over at full-time. Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes is among several individuals facing three charges of violent conduct.
Ferran Torres scored the winning goal moments after Enzo Fernandez had been sent off, ending Argentina's title defence. While Messi was not directly involved in any physical altercations, he and his colleagues drew condemnation for turning away and declining to watch Spain's trophy ceremony.
Petitions demand the award is withdrawn
Several fan-led petitions have argued that Messi's behaviour fails to meet the standards the honour is meant to celebrate. One petition states that the player exhibited conduct that was "unsportsmanlike and contrary to the values of respect and fair play that the sport promotes." It also claims that withdrawing the accolade would "send a clear message about the importance of maintaining exemplary conduct in all facets of life, especially in the realm of sports."
Another campaign says rescinding the award would help "restore confidence in the fairness and rigour" of the prize, which has previously gone to Al Gore, David Attenborough, Rafael Nadal and Stephen Hawking.
Foundation defends the decision
Messi is scheduled to receive the award at a ceremony in October. When his selection was announced, the Princess of Asturias Foundation highlighted his career and charitable work, saying: "In addition to [Messi's] dazzling talent, the Jury has highlighted his exceptional sporting career and his formidable and continued charitable work to promote access to education and health care for the most disadvantaged children."
The foundation added: "Leo Messi, the player who has won the most titles in the history of football, has also earned the respect and admiration of everyone for his exemplary behaviour on the field and for his consistency, humility and commitment to the team game."
