Spanish fans petition to revoke Messi's Princess of Asturias Award after World Cup final controversy

Hupu, July 29th — According to Spanish outlet 20 Minutos, Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 in the 2026 World Cup final, held across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with an extra-time winner from Ferran Torres. However, the aftermath of the high-stakes match has only intensified.

A large number of Spanish fans, dissatisfied with Argentine captain Lionel Messi's protest actions during the final and the subsequent controversy, have launched a joint petition on a website. They are demanding that the Princess of Asturias Foundation withdraw, cancel, or reassess the "2026 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports" granted to Messi.

Just over a week after the World Cup final concluded, as many as 30 petitions for revoking Messi's award have emerged on the platform.

Petitioners Cite Unsportsmanlike Conduct

The petitioners unanimously argue that Messi's behavior during and after the final was "unsportsmanlike and contrary to the sports values of mutual respect."

• Javier, the petition initiator, wrote in his petition (which has garnered over 1,500 signatures):

"Messi's performance completely violates the principles of respect and fair play advocated by sports. To uphold the reputation and credibility of the Princess of Asturias Award, the foundation must reconsider this award decision."

• Laura, another initiator, stated:

"Revoking the recognition of Messi will help rebuild public trust in the award's fairness and rigor."

The petitioners emphasized that Messi, as captain of the Argentine national team, should serve as a role model for respect and fair play both on and off the field, but he clearly failed to fulfill this duty.

Broader Controversy and FIFA Investigation

This wave of public opinion targets not only Messi personally but also the attitude of the Argentine delegation during the award ceremony and the physical altercations that broke out after the final whistle.

It is reported that after the final whistle, players and staff from both sides engaged in a fierce clash on the field. FIFA has officially initiated disciplinary and ethical investigation procedures.

Spanish national team coach De la Fuente, when discussing the post-match chaos, bluntly condemned these actions as "extremely serious in nature, completely intolerable and unacceptable."

Background on the Award

Not long ago, the Princess of Asturias Foundation announced that Messi had won the "2026 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports." At the time, the jury praised Messi's career, charitable contributions, and "exemplary behavior on the field" in the award citation, acknowledging his perseverance, humility, and dedication to teamwork.

According to the original plan, the official award ceremony is scheduled for October this year.

Source: 20minutos International Football News

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