Lionel Messi travelled to Spain to collect the Princess of Asturias Award for Sport for 2026 in Oviedo. He was then preparing to leave Spain and rejoin Inter Miami in the United States.
Oviedo award visit
Messi touched down in Oviedo to receive the award. The honour recognises both his sporting career and his social impact.
During the visit, he met children and teenagers at the sports palace and dined with the King and Queen of Spain.
Return to Inter Miami
Messi was preparing to rejoin Inter Miami. GOAL reported that he was expected to feature against New York Red Bulls.
Inter Miami sit second in the Eastern Conference. Coach Kelly Gonzalez said: "We have to feel proud that, of his own free will, he wants to be here and play."
Ballon d'Or decision still open
Monday's Ballon d'Or ceremony was set for 26 October. Messi's stance on attending the Ballon d'Or ceremony remained undecided.
He had been nominated for the Ballon d'Or for the 17th time in his career and holds the record with eight Ballon d'Or wins.