Messi’s surprise reaction to Real Madrid fans’ insult revealed by Spanish radio director

Lionel Messi burst out laughing when a Spanish radio director told him about a Real Madrid supporter’s insult during a Clasico at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Edu Garcia, director of Spain’s Radio Estadio, recalled the exchange while discussing the chants aimed at the Inter Miami captain by sections of the Real Madrid support. He was speaking on the programme Mas de uno as Messi was being honoured with the Princess of Asturias Award for Sports.

Garcia used the programme to reflect on Messi’s career, his historic achievements, charitable work and relationship with the media. The award recognised the Argentine’s contribution to football both on and off the pitch.

Messi asks what is said about him in Madrid

Garcia said the incident took place during a Clasico between Real Madrid and Barcelona at the Santiago Bernabeu.

At the time, radio reporters had to disguise themselves and sit among the spectators because of a dispute between La Liga, led by Javier Tebas, and radio stations over access to stadiums.

During the match, one of the broadcasters’ microphones picked up a Real Madrid supporter shouting an insult at Messi. The fan used the word “hormone”, referring to the hormone treatment Messi underwent as a child.

Garcia later met Messi at an exhibition in Barcelona, where he was helping the footballer present his new boot. During their conversation, Messi asked him about the way he was spoken about in the Spanish capital.

“Tell me the truth, what do they say about me in Madrid?” Messi said, according to Garcia.

The radio director then told him about the chant heard at the Bernabeu. Rather than reacting with anger, Messi responded by bursting into laughter, treating the incident with irony.

Recognition for an exceptional career

Garcia also praised Messi’s career and the achievements that have defined it.

He highlighted Argentina’s World Cup triumph as a historic milestone in the player’s journey, while also pointing to Messi’s charitable contribution, which he said had become increasingly prominent over the years.

The radio director further praised Messi’s character, describing him as calm and someone who speaks relatively little. The Argentine has generally preferred to express himself through his football, Garcia said, making his media appearances particularly significant when they do occur.

Messi’s career was celebrated as part of the recognition accompanying the Princess of Asturias Award for Sports, with attention paid both to his success on the pitch and his work away from it.