Lionel Messi for MTV award 2013 !

FC Barcelona’s continued growth and exposure as a global brand is down to Lionel Messi more than anyone in the current squad. 

The 25 year old is one of four athletes up for the “Sport Hero” of the year award at the 2013 MTV Italy Awards being held in Florence on June 15th. Vote after the jump.

Messi is coming up against LA Laker (basketball) star Kobe Bryant, Italian legend motorbike racer Valentino Rossi, and Italian gymnast Carlotta Ferlito. Certainly not the most important award, but if you’re interested vote messi here . 

At the very least it shows his growing fandom and influence, being an Argentinian playing for a Spanish team but being the only football player in an Italian based award.

Source and Image Credit: MTV