Ines Garcia, the Spanish content creator and partner of Barcelona’s rising star Lamine Yamal, has spoken publicly for the first time after becoming the target of widespread criticism and online abuse following Spain’s World Cup celebrations.

Garcia drew attention during the 2026 FIFA World Cup when she appeared on the pitch at the MetLife Stadium alongside Yamal as Spain’s senior team celebrated their championship victory. Spain clinched the 2026 World Cup title by defeating Argentina 1-0 in the final match.

Following the celebratory scenes, several images and videos circulated across social media showing the Spanish team’s jubilant moments after their triumph. However, many online users commented on the apparent lack of interaction between Lamine Yamal and his girlfriend Ines Garcia, interpreting it as a hint of trouble in their relationship.

The situation quickly escalated as Garcia faced harsh criticism and a wave of abusive comments described by many as “hateful.”

Responding to the verbal attacks, Ines Garcia issued a lengthy statement reported by the Spanish newspaper "Marca". In her message, she expressed her emotional distress, saying, “I have been reading the comments about me for hours, and even though I try to appear strong, I am also a human being. I feel and I cry.”

She emphasised that being in a relationship does not take away one’s humanity, adding, “I understand constructive criticism, but there is a difference between that and insult or humiliation, as well as wishing harm on another person.”

Garcia, who is well-known for her online content, further insisted that she has never harmed Yamal or anyone else. “I have not taken anything from anyone. I am simply living my own life,” she stated firmly.

She appealed to social media users to act with compassion and understanding, revealing that her family and friends have been deeply concerned about her well-being. “I am like anyone else in life. I have good days and I have difficult ones,” she shared.

Garcia concluded her statement with a heartfelt wish, saying that her only aim is to live a peaceful life and share her experiences without offending or hurting anyone. “We are all trying to live our lives in the best way possible. I hope we always choose empathy instead of hatred,” she said, expressing hope that the online world will one day stop glorifying cruelty.