Princess Leonor has presented the insignias to the winners of the 46th edition of the Princess of Asturias Awards, including singer Patti Smith and footballer Leo Messi, in a ceremony held on Friday. This marks the first time the Princess of Asturias has conducted the awards presentation solo, further establishing her role in the prestigious event.
The ceremony took place at the historic Hotel de la Reconquista in Oviedo, a traditional venue for the awards. Prior to the ceremony at the Teatro Campoamor, Princess Leonor met with the laureates in an audience, showcasing her growing involvement in the awards that bear her name.
Patti Smith expressed that the Princess of Asturias Award for the Arts serves as an incentive for her to continue her work and evolve as an artist. During her speech at the Teatro Campoamor, Smith reflected on the importance of the recognition, stating it allows her and other winners to contemplate their achievements. She noted that the recipients of this year’s awards have contributed to improving the well-being of the world and its people.
“They are role models who promote joy, protect the environment, explore boldly, defend human rights, stimulate intellectual curiosity, and serve as a source of pride. I feel very fortunate to be among them,”
As she concluded her speech, Smith performed an a cappella rendition of her song 'Wing', captivating the audience of civil authorities, business leaders, cultural figures, and members of the diplomatic corps.
Christina Koch, awarded the Princess of Asturias Award for Concord, remarked that astronauts must remain grounded, as expressed in the Spanish saying, and stressed the importance of conducting missions with people rather than robots. Koch, who made history as the first woman to leave low Earth orbit and the first to circle the Moon aboard Artemis II, shared her experiences during a meeting with students from various educational institutions.
British historian, writer, and journalist Timothy Garton Ash received the Princess of Asturias Award for Social Sciences. He emphasised that the future of a united and free Europe relies on building society on the pursuit of truth, restoring trust, and coordinating efforts in a manner akin to the famous 'tiki-taka' style of Spanish football. Garton Ash was presented with the award by Princess Leonor, recognising his commitment to European unity.
