Spain Demands Probe into Lamine Yamal’s Birthday Party over Alleged Dwarf Exploitation, Objectification of Women
Lamine Yamal’s 18th birthday party is under fire over alleged discriminatory entertainment choices.
Spanish authorities demand a full investigation amid backlash from disability rights and civil society groups.
The Spanish government has called for a formal investigation into FC Barcelona star Lamine Yamal’s 18th birthday celebration following allegations of exploitative and discriminatory practices during the party.
Held on July 13 with around 200 guests, including teammates, friends, and family, the event has drawn severe backlash after claims emerged that individuals with dwarfism were hired for entertainment and that 12 women with “a specific breast size” were paid to attend the party, which reportedly had a mafia-themed backdrop.
According to Spanish outlet ‘Marca’, Yamal could face a fine of up to £867,000 if found in violation of disability and anti-discrimination laws. Social media model Claudio Calvo was among those who brought the allegations to light, triggering public outrage and legal scrutiny.
Jesús Martín, Spain’s General Director of Disability, condemned the reported actions and urged government ministers to approve a comprehensive investigation. “We are concerned that people with money, people with power, believe themselves to be unpunished. The law is for everyone, for the humble and the powerful,” he stated, adding that high-profile figures like Yamal should be more mindful of the influence they wield over younger generations.
The Association of People with Achondroplasia and Other Skeletal Dysplasias with Dwarfism (ADEE), a member body of the Spanish Confederation of People with Physical and Organic Disabilities (COCEMFE), issued a strong statement condemning the alleged hiring of people with dwarfism for entertainment purposes.
“The ADEE publicly denounces the hiring of people with dwarfism as part of the entertainment at the recent 18th birthday party of soccer player Lamine Yamal,” the organization said. “We will take legal and social action to safeguard the dignity of people with disabilities, as these actions not only violate current legislation but also go against the ethical foundations of an egalitarian and respectful society.”
