Barcelona president Laporta hails Messi after Asturias award win

Barcelona president Joan Laporta has sent a congratulatory message to football legend Lionel Messi after he won the Princess of Asturias Award for Sports in Spain.

Laporta wrote on his X account: "Messi and Barça, Barça and Messi, a story of shared success that fills every Barcelona fan with immense pride. We hope it remains everlasting."

Strong disagreements had erupted between Laporta and Messi during contract renewal talks in 2021, ultimately leading to the departure of the club and La Liga’s all-time top scorer. The two have not communicated for several years.