Lionel Messi will forego the Ballon d'Or ceremony to attend the Princess of Asturias Awards in Oviedo, Spain. According to MARCA, Messi and his family will spend 48 hours fulfilling royal obligations related to the event. He is set to receive the award in the sports category at the Princess of Asturias Awards. This commitment means he will be absent from the Ballon d'Or gala on October 26th. The event in Oviedo promises to be a highly regal affair for the renowned footballer. His attendance underscores the importance placed on the Princess of Asturias Awards by the Spanish Royal Family. He will be participating in a 'royal-themed' experience with his family.