Barcelona’s young sensation, Lamine Yamal, has found himself at the center of a major controversy following his 18th birthday celebration. Reports indicate that the party featured the hiring of individuals with dwarfism for entertainment purposes, an act that has sparked widespread outrage and led to an official government investigation in Spain.
The Controversial Celebration
Lamine Yamal, who recently turned 18, hosted a lavish birthday party in Olivella, a small town near Barcelona. The event was attended by Barcelona teammates, YouTubers, influencers, and other guests. While details were initially kept private with a strict no-phone policy, snippets and reports from the party eventually emerged, revealing the presence of entertainers with dwarfism.
Outcry from Disability Rights Groups
The “dwarfism act” at Yamal’s party immediately drew strong condemnation from the Association of People with Achondroplasia and Other Skeletal Dysplasias with Dwarfism (ADEE), a prominent disability rights group in Spain. ADEE, part of the Spanish Confederation of People with Physical and Organic Disabilities (COCEMFE), publicly denounced the act as “intolerable,” stating that it “perpetuates stereotypes, fuels discrimination, and undermines the image and rights of those with achondroplasia or other skeletal dysplasias, as well as all people with disabilities.”
Carolina Puente, president of ADEE, emphasized that the “dignity and rights of our community are not entertainment for anyone, under any circumstances,” especially when public figures like Yamal are involved. The association has vowed to take legal and social action against the organizers of the event.
Government Investigation Launched
Following the formal complaint filed by ADEE, the Spanish Ministry of Social Rights has launched an official inquiry into the matter. Authorities have directed the public prosecution to investigate any potential human rights abuses that may have occurred at the party. Under Spanish law, shows or recreational activities that mock or disrespect people with disabilities are prohibited.
Performer’s Defense and Yamal’s Silence
Amidst the growing controversy, one of the entertainers hired for the party anonymously defended their participation in an interview with a Catalan radio station, RAC1. The performer stated, “No one disrespected us, we were allowed to work in peace. We’re normal people who dedicate ourselves to what we love doing in an absolutely legal way.” They also criticized ADEE, suggesting the association is trying to limit job opportunities for people with dwarfism.
As of now, Lamine Yamal has not made any public statement regarding the allegations or the ongoing investigation.
Club’s Stance and Potential Consequences
FC Barcelona has largely refrained from making a strong public statement, with a club spokesperson initially calling the incident “strictly within the private sphere.” However, they also indicated that the club might reconsider its stance once more “concrete information” becomes available.
This unforeseen controversy could have significant consequences for Lamine Yamal’s public image and career, especially given his status as one of football’s brightest young stars. The incident has also ignited a broader discussion in Spain about dignity, respect, and the responsibilities of public figures. Many are calling for accountability and greater awareness around inclusion and sensitivity.