Ricky Martin Wins First-Ever Latin Icon Award At MTV VMAs: “We Just Want To Unite Countries”
Ricky Martin was honored with the first-ever Latin Icon award at the 2025 MTV VMAs after performing a medley of some of his high-energy hits.
The Puerto Rican star is credited with being one of the artists to pave the way for other Latin artists to make the crossover, and was honored with a trophy for his music career.
“This is for you all,” Martin said. “Thank you so much for your applause. I am addicted to your applause. That’s why I keep coming back. It’s you, not only here in America, but all over the world.”
He continued, “Thank you so much because it’s been 40 years — I started when I was a baby and we’re still here. We just want to unite countries. We just want to break boundaries and we just want to keep music alive.”
Martin dedicated his trophy to his kids, saying, “Everything I do, I do it with you in my mind and in my heart.”
The singer was not the only artist to receive a special award. Mariah Carey received the Video Vanguard Award. She is also set to perform a medley highlighting some of her hits from her career.
RELATED: MTV Video Music Awards: List Of All 2025 VMA Winners
Busta Rhymes received the Rock the Bells Visionary Award and also took the UBS Arena stage to perform.
Lady Gaga led the 2025 VMAs with 12 nominations, including Video of the Year, Artist of the Year, and Best Album. The “Abracadabra” singer marks the third time she has led nominations, having achieved the feat previously in 2010 with 13 nods and 2020, where she tied with nine nods.
Other artists with multiple nominations include Bruno Mars (11), Kendrick Lamar (10), ROSÉ and Sabrina Carpenter (eight each), Ariana Grande and The Weeknd (seven each), Billie Eilish (six), Charli xcx (five), Bad Bunny, Doechii, Ed Sheeran, Jelly Roll, Miley Cyrus and Tate McRae (four each).
