Spanish Fans Demand Revocation of Messi's Princess of Asturias Award After World Cup Final Controversy
According to Spanish newspaper 20 Minutos, Spanish fans have launched multiple online petitions demanding the Princess of Asturias Foundation withdraw, cancel, or reassess the 2026 Princess of Asturias Sports Award given to Lionel Messi. The petitions, which emerged just over a week after the 2026 World Cup final, cite Messi's protest actions during the match and post-match controversy as violations of sportsmanship and mutual respect. The final, held in the US, Canada, and Mexico, saw Spain defeat Argentina 1-0 with an extra-time goal by Ferran Torres. After the final whistle, physical altercations broke out between players and staff from both sides, prompting FIFA to initiate disciplinary and ethical investigations. Spanish national team coach De la Fuente condemned the post-match chaos as 'extremely serious and completely intolerable.' The award ceremony was originally scheduled for October 2026.
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