Barcelona star Lamine Yamal is at the center of a growing controversy following his 18th birthday celebration, as the Spanish government has called for a full investigation into allegations of exploitation and inappropriate conduct during the event.
The young football sensation reportedly hosted a lavish mafia-themed party on July 13, attended by around 200 guests including close friends, family members, and fellow players.
READ ALSO: Ballon d’Or: Dembele deserves to win award – PSG president
However, the event has drawn sharp criticism after it was alleged that women with specific physical features were paid to attend, and individuals with dwarfism were hired for entertainment purposes.
Social media influencer Claudio Calvo claimed that Yamal organized for 12 women, all meeting a particular breast size requirement, to be present at the event.
The claims have triggered public backlash and prompted both legal threats and government intervention.Spain’s Association of People with Achondroplasia and Other Skeletal Dysplasias with Dwarfism (ADEE) has condemned the act and threatened to initiate legal proceedings. The association’s stance has been echoed by various disability rights advocates and now, by senior officials within the Spanish government.
According to Marca, the incident could have serious legal consequences for Yamal, including a potential fine that could reach up to £867,000. Jesús Martín, the country’s General Director of Disability, is pressing for formal action and has urged cabinet ministers to approve an official inquiry into the matter.
“We are concerned that people with money, people with power, believe themselves to be unpunished. The law is for everyone, for the humble and for the powerful,” said Martín, expressing concerns about the potential influence of Yamal’s actions on his young fanbase.
ADEE also released a powerful statement condemning the incident: “The ADEE, a member organisation of the Spanish Confederation of People with Physical and Organic Disabilities, condemns and 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 group stated.
“The Association announces that it will take legal and social action to safeguard the dignity of people with disabilities, considering that these actions violate not only current legislation but also the fundamental ethical values of a society that seeks to be egalitarian and respectful.
“The scandal continues to dominate headlines in Spain, sparking broader conversations around discrimination, the misuse of privilege, and the ethical responsibilities of public figures.
