Laporta’s emotional message about Messi breaks fans’ hearts.

FC Barcelona president Joan Laporta has sent a deeply personal message to Lionel Messi after the Argentine legend was awarded the 2026 Princess of Asturias Award in the Sports category.

The honor, one of Spain's most prestigious, recognizes Messi's exceptional football career, his human influence, and his sporting legacy.

Messi won the award on Friday, November 6, 2026, according to reports from French Football Weekly.

FC Barcelona marked the occasion with an official statement from Laporta addressed directly to their former star.

"Leo, congratulations on receiving the 2026 Princess of Asturias Award in the Sports category, a well-deserved recognition of your footballing and human career," Laporta said.

"Thanks to your talent, you helped make FC Barcelona, the club of your life, even greater, yesterday, today and forever."

The president's words carried a weight that resonated deeply with Barcelona supporters.

"Messi and Barça, Barça and Messi: a shared success story of which we, the loyal Barça supporters, are deeply proud and which we hope will be eternal," Laporta added.

The message is significant because of the complicated history between Messi and Barcelona.

Messi spent 21 years at the club, from his arrival as a 13-year-old to his tearful departure in 2021.

He won 35 trophies with Barcelona, including four Champions League titles and 10 La Liga championships.

His exit was forced by the club's financial crisis, with Laporta himself unable to offer a new contract under La Liga's salary cap rules.

Since leaving, Messi has played for Paris Saint-Germain and now Inter Miami in MLS.

He has not returned to Barcelona in any official capacity, though rumors of a farewell match or front-office role have circulated.

Laporta's tribute stops short of announcing any formal reunion.

But the phrase "yesterday, today and forever" and the word "eternal" suggest the bond remains unbroken, at least from the club's side.

The Princess of Asturias Award jury cited Messi's "extraordinary talent, humility, and ability to inspire millions around the world."

Messi is currently preparing for the MLS playoffs with Inter Miami, who have already secured their postseason spot.

His former Barcelona teammate Luis Suárez is also on the Miami roster, along with Brazilian veteran Casemiro.

Inter Miami forward Germán Berterame recently described Messi's influence on the squad, saying "he wants to win everything" and that his competitive drive rubs off on everyone.

Meanwhile, Argentina's national team is navigating life after Messi's international retirement.

Messi ended his Argentina career in October 2026 as the country's all-time leading scorer with 115 goals in 206 appearances.

He led Argentina to the 2022 World Cup title and two Copa America trophies.

His iconic No. 10 jersey has not been assigned for the November 2026 friendlies against Uruguay and Costa Rica.