Barcelona, May 13 (V7N) – Lamine Yamal has drawn widespread praise on social media after waving a Palestinian flag during FC Barcelona’s La Liga victory parade following the club’s title-winning celebrations in Catalonia.
The celebrations took place after Barcelona defeated Real Madrid 2-0 to secure their second consecutive La Liga title on Monday.
During the victory parade through the streets of Catalonia, the 18-year-old forward was seen holding a large Palestinian flag in front of thousands of supporters in what many viewed as a gesture of solidarity with Palestine.
Although Yamal missed Sunday’s El Clasico because of injury, he joined his teammates during Monday’s celebrations.
Videos and images of the moment quickly went viral online, drawing reactions from supporters and activists around the world.
“It may seem like a simple gesture to some, but it has touched our hearts in Gaza in a way that is beyond words,” said Palestinian student Muhammad Akram from Gaza. “Thank you, Lamine Yamal.”
The gesture comes amid continued international attention surrounding the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, which began on October 7, 2023. Demonstrations of solidarity with Palestine have increasingly appeared at sporting events worldwide.
Lebanese political activist and writer Diab Abu Jahjah praised the footballer’s actions, saying, “When you have a platform, use it. Speak out against injustice.”
Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick told reporters on Tuesday that he had discussed the matter with Yamal.
“I told him if you want to do it, it’s your decision. You’re old enough to understand now,” Flick said.
Following the celebrations, Yamal shared several photos on his Instagram account, including one featuring the Palestinian flag. The post reportedly received more than five million likes from his millions of followers.
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