A football supporter in Spain has claimed that he deliberately injured his own hand to avoid going to work and catch a glimpse of Lionel Messi. The astonishing admission surfaced as crowds of supporters gathered outside the superstar's hotel in Oviedo on Thursday, 22 October 2026.
The Argentina international arrived in the northern Spanish region of Asturias ahead of receiving a major national honour. His presence immediately triggered widespread excitement across the city, attracting hundreds of fans hoping for an interaction with their sporting hero.
An Extreme Act of Supporter Devotion
The extraordinary claim first began circulating on social media shortly after Messi arrived in Oviedo. Supporters had assembled in large numbers near the team residence in anticipation of his arrival.
While standing among fellow supporters outside the hotel, one fan revealed the drastic steps he took to attend.
"I deliberately cut my hand so I wouldn’t have to go to work and could come here to see Leo Messi,” the fan told journalists.
The video footage quickly spread across online football communities. However, the specific background details and exact circumstances surrounding the alleged self-injury remain unclear.
Arrival at the Hotel Reconquista
The Inter Miami captain flew into Spain aboard a private jet before travelling directly to the Hotel Reconquista in central Oviedo. A dense crowd of football enthusiasts had gathered around the building premises, eager to see the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner.
According to Spanish media reports, Messi managed to avoid the waiting supporters outside by entering the hotel premises directly through its garage.
The 39-year-old forward travelled to Spain specifically to receive the 2026 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports. The prestigious award recognises his extraordinary career in world football, alongside his charitable initiatives that support healthcare and educational programmes for disadvantaged children.
Key Statistics and Event Schedule
Public excitement surrounding Messi’s visit to Asturias has reached record levels across the municipality. As part of his official itinerary on Thursday afternoon, the footballer was scheduled to attend a meeting with students and educational representatives at Oviedo’s Palacio de los Deportes.
Ticket demand for the student gathering proved remarkable. All available spectator passes for the stadium event reportedly sold out within just 13 minutes of release.
Messi’s brief visit to Asturias will culminate today, Friday with the official awards ceremony hosted at the historic Teatro Campoamor.
Following the presentation, the Inter Miami star will immediately return to the United States for his club's upcoming Major League Soccer fixture. For local supporters in Oviedo, the rare appearance of the football legend converted an ordinary week into an unforgettable occasion.
