Residents of Gaza have reportedly created drawings and shared images of Lamine Yamal holding the Palestinian flag after he was seen waving it during FC Barcelona’s La Liga title celebrations.
The 18-year-old took part in the club’s open-top bus parade in Barcelona following their 2–0 El Clásico victory over Real Madrid, a result that secured their second straight league title. Although he did not play in the match due to injury, he was present during the public celebration and was seen carrying the Palestinian flag, with footage quickly spreading across social media.
The gesture drew strong reactions from Gaza and other regions. A Palestinian student, Muhammed Akram, said the moment carried deep emotional meaning for people in Gaza, adding that it was far more impactful than it might appear elsewhere and expressing gratitude toward Yamal. Activists and commentators also described the act as a sign of solidarity. The Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement also welcomed the gesture, calling it meaningful and highlighting sport’s ability to draw attention to humanitarian issues.
Hansi Flick, head coach of Barcelona, said he had spoken with Yamal about the incident, noting that it was ultimately the player’s personal decision. Yamal later shared photos from the celebration on Instagram, including the image with the Palestinian flag, which received widespread engagement and reactions from fans, public figures, and fellow athletes.
