Messi and Yamal Admire Nicki Nicole’s Talent at Charity Event

On August 24, 2025, during a star-studded charity gala in Barcelona organized by FC Barcelona to support children’s education, Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal expressed their shared admiration for Argentine singer Nicki Nicole, who performed at the event. The 24-year-old Latin Grammy-nominated artist captivated the audience, including the football icons, with her powerful performance and heartfelt speech about empowering youth. Their enthusiasm for her talent, reported by La Vanguardia, sparked headlines but was rooted in professional respect, not romantic interest, highlighting a meaningful connection at the event.

Nicki Nicole, born Nicole Denise Cucco, performed her hit song “Plegarias” at the gala, which raised €250,000 for educational programs in underserved communities. Messi, 38, attending as a guest from Inter Miami, praised her afterward, saying, “Nicki Nicole’s energy is incredible. Her music and message inspire so many, including me.” Yamal, the 18-year-old Barcelona prodigy, echoed, “I’m a huge fan of her work. She’s doing amazing things for young people.” Their comments came during a meet-and-greet where Nicki Nicole gifted both players signed vinyls of her latest album, Alma.

The event, held at the Palau de Congressos, saw Messi and Yamal seated near each other, both visibly moved by Nicki Nicole’s performance. A viral moment captured by El País showed them applauding enthusiastically, with Yamal later posting on Instagram, “Nicki Nicole killed it! Honored to meet her.” Messi, whose wife Antonela Roccuzzo also attended, shared a photo with the singer on his Stories, captioning it, “Amazing talent, amazing cause.” Roccuzzo, a fan of Nicki Nicole, was seen chatting with her about her music, further dispelling any misconceptions.

Fans on X celebrated the interaction, with one user posting, “Messi and Yamal fangirling over Nicki Nicole is the crossover we needed!” Another wrote, “Nicki’s performance brought Messi and Yamal together—her talent is unreal.” The singer, known for her advocacy for youth empowerment, connected with the players over their shared Argentine roots and commitment to philanthropy. Her presence at the gala, alongside other stars like Rosalía, elevated the event’s impact.

Messi, preparing for Argentina’s World Cup qualifiers, and Yamal, shining in Barcelona’s La Liga campaign, found common ground in their admiration for Nicki Nicole’s artistry. The event also highlighted their longstanding bond, famously captured in a 2007 charity photo when Messi held a baby Yamal. Their shared appreciation for Nicki Nicole underscores her rising influence and the power of music and football to unite for a greater cause.