18 Years After Messi Held Baby Yamal, UNICEF Reveals Story Behind Viral Photos
A childhood moment captured more than 18 years ago has resurfaced, reminding the world of the importance of creating opportunities for children to grow, thrive and achieve their potential.
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has confirmed that the widely shared photos showing football star Lionel Messi caring for a baby Lamine Yamal were taken during a fundraising photoshoot in Barcelona in 2007.
At the time, Messi was 20 years old and beginning to establish himself as a key player for Barcelona, while Yamal was only five months old. Yamal’s family had won a newspaper raffle that allowed their child to participate in the UNICEF campaign.
The photos gained global attention during the 2024 European Championships, where Yamal helped Spain win the tournament. They resurfaced again ahead of the 2026 World Cup final, where Argentina’s Messi and Spain’s Yamal are set to meet as opponents for the first time.
UNICEF said the images represent more than a meeting between two football talents, describing them as a reminder of the importance of investing in children’s futures.
The organisation noted that both Messi and Yamal now use their platforms as UNICEF Goodwill Ambassadors to support children’s rights and advocate for improved opportunities for children worldwide.
The moment between a young Messi and baby Yamal reflects how early support, encouragement and opportunities can help children develop their abilities and pursue their dreams.
