Barcelona footballer Lamine Yamal is facing heavy criticism and possible legal action after reportedly hiring people with dwarfism to perform at his 18th birthday party.
Images leaked from the private event showed a group of people of short stature arriving at the celebration, despite a ban on mobile phone use inside the venue. The photos quickly spread online, sparking outrage and calls for accountability.
Spain’s Association of People with Achondroplasia and other Skeletal Dysplasia (ADEE) condemned the teenager’s actions. In a statement, the organisation said the move was “intolerable” and accused Yamal of using people’s disabilities for entertainment purposes.
“This perpetuates stereotypes, fuels discrimination, and undermines the image and rights of those with achondroplasia or other skeletal dysplasia, as well as all people with disabilities,” said Carolina Puente, president of ADEE.
The association, which is part of Spain’s Confederation of People with Physical and Organic Disabilities (COCEMFE), announced plans to take both legal and social action against Yamal. ADEE stated that its goal is to protect the dignity of people with disabilities and end the practice of hiring people with dwarfism for entertainment at parties.
“It’s unacceptable that in the 21st century, people with dwarfism continue to be used as entertainment at private events, especially when it involves public figures like Lamine Yamal,” Puente said.
Neither Yamal nor his representatives have responded publicly to the controversy.
Yamal, who turned 18 on Sunday, is considered one of the brightest young talents in world football. He came through Barcelona’s famous La Masia academy and made his senior debut at just 15. Last season, he became a regular in the starting lineup and helped Barcelona win three domestic titles: La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the Supercopa.
He also played a key role in Spain’s victory at the 2024 UEFA European Championship and was part of Barcelona’s Champions League campaign, which ended in the semi-finals against Inter Milan.
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