Calls for Lionel Messi to be stripped of the Princess of Asturias Award for Sports have intensified in the wake of the 2026 World Cup final. The honour, given for outstanding contributions to sport, science, the humanities and public affairs, was handed to the Argentine in June.
The jury behind the decision highlighted Messi's extraordinary achievements on the pitch, his extensive charitable work, his exemplary on-field conduct and his perseverance, humility and commitment to team play. That rationale has come under intense scrutiny after Argentina lost 1-0 to Spain in last month's World Cup final.
Petitions urge award to be revoked
Multiple petitions have been launched calling for Messi to be stripped of the award, with critics arguing his actions fell short of the standards the honour is meant to recognise. One petition says Messi displayed behaviour that was "unsportsmanlike and contrary to the values of respect and fair play that the sport promotes." It adds that removing the award would "send a clear message about the importance of maintaining exemplary conduct in all facets of life, especially in the realm of sports."
Another initiative says revoking the honour would help "restore confidence in the fairness and rigour" of the awards, which have previously gone to figures such as Al Gore, David Attenborough, Rafael Nadal and Stephen Hawking.
Messi to receive honour in October
Messi, 39, is due to receive the award at a ceremony in October. When announcing him as the recipient, the Princess of Asturias Foundation said: "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 continued: "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."
World Cup final fallout
Messi was denied the fairy-tale ending to his international career as Argentina suffered a 1-0 extra-time defeat against Spain in New Jersey. Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal shortly after Enzo Fernandez had been sent off, ending Argentina's title defence.
Spain were worthy winners, dominating from start to finish. They had 68 per cent possession and 20 shots at goal, while Argentina managed just three attempts, all after falling behind in extra time.
The match was ultimately overshadowed by chaotic post-match scenes. Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes is among several individuals under investigation by FIFA after being charged with three counts of violent conduct, having been seen physically manhandling two Spain players.
